Western Michigan University Reviews

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Tim from Kalamazoo, MI

12/07/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

14 out of 15 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

This school is great for students looking for careers in Music, Theatre, Aviation, and Business. We are one of the few schools to have an Aviation program, and our Fine Arts programs are in the upper categories in the nation for any of those looking to be a Profession Musician or Actor.

Tips for prospective students

For future students, dont be afraid to get out and meet new people. There are awesome students here waiting to meet you with similar interests as yourself. The dormitories offer fun events for you to meet others who live in the same building as you, the Campus Activities Board sets up numerous activities such as Miller Movies for students, and theres multitudes of other clubs and groups for students to join. The experience here is what you make of it, and it wont be difficult to have a great time here in Kalamazoo Michigan as a Bronco.

Bang for the buck

The price for the Bronco education is not too expensive. It's made very affordable with scholarships and financial aid available to every student.

Am enjoying being here

The atmosphere here at WMU is great. It's just the write size that when you walk around on campus, you always see a familiar face. The campus is a great size, where the farthest classes from one another are at most a 15 minute walk, as compared to some other schools. The extracurricular activities are numerous here, with something for everyone to get involved in. From Student Activities Board, to my a Capella group (WMU Broncords), to Humans vs. Zombies; the school offers a multitude of great experiences for students of all types of interests.

Am learning a lot

The academics offered here at WMU are great. The school is not too big that it is hard to get individual help, but its big enough to teach you how to learn on your own and use the facilities the school provides as help. The student writing center and math tutoring sessions are each great tools to help you learn in your big lecture halls.

Charles from Portage, MI

01/07/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

9 out of 9 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

I'm a physics student, but I've found philosophy and chemistry to be strong areas in this college. I haven't experienced much in my one semester here, but Chem 1100, 1110, Philosophy of Science (honors), and music appreciation to be well worth while.

Tips for prospective students

I wouldn't recommend the unlimited food plan, my roommate and I are having trouble justifying the cost of having it, and realistically the 3-a-day has been better. Also stay on the good side of the R.A.'s on campus, they'll become good friends to have later on.

Bang for the buck

Going here actually ended up being less than I had expected, the living conditions have been better than anticipated (good roommate helps), classes have been well put together and fulfilling, and I find that the food is good.

Am enjoying being here

Life here has been swell, I've only found myself complaining about the location of the Valley dorms and that the Gold Bus is usually full.

Am learning a lot

I have to say, I thought Gen. Ed's would be boring, but I have found one in each area that has kept my interest. I must say though if ever you get a chance to be in a class by Prof. Tim McGrew, do not pass up the opportunity. McGrew has been one of the best instructors I've had, ever.

Sharndeep from Canton, MI

Western is great for students who would like a excellent learning experience while experiencing the WMU community. All the classes on campus are very near and make traveling easy.

Tips for prospective students

For new and prospective students, I would highly recommend living on campus for at least a year. You will be part of an extraordinary community where you will meet some of your best friends. It will also give you a chance to experience living on your own so that you may begin to ready yourself for post graduation. I will also recommend getting involved with extracurricular activities. I joined multiple intramural sports and was part of a student organization. This will bring you closer to the WMU community.

Bang for the buck

Western Michigan is an excellent university and goes beyond expectations for their community living. They only thing I was not satisfied about was the cost. Tuition for classes are somewhat on the pricey side, but the prices do not increase when you enter your freshmen year. I would have to say the living expenses seem fair.

Did enjoy being here

Being part of the WMU community is a great way to meet others and stay connected. I lived on campus my freshmen year and joined in extracurricular activities throughout the campus. Western Michigan provided everything I needed to create a homely environment. I made many friends who were just a walk away, there are sports fields directly on campus to play sports, everything is within a 15 minute walk, and even the professors were very easy to get a hold of. The area surrounding Westerns campus also provides students with many of their needs. Like grocery stores, clothing stores, a downtown area to hang out with friends and to watch movies.

Did learn a lot

Learning through a college environment is much different than High School. The classes are more specialized about their subject. What I have learned in these classes has helped me decide my major, which will be Finance. The professors were always willing to help with my questions even when they were not in their office.

Brittany

Western is great for students who like having a large student body and endless opportunities without the feeling of being overwhelmed by an enormous campus.

Tips for prospective students

I know you have all probably heard this ten million times and you won't believe it until you experience it yourself. However, I am going to say it anyway. Do not be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone. It is the only way to meet new people and grow as a person. I knew absolutely nobody on campus when I arrived on move-in day and I was horrified. However, with the help of a friendly roommate and my newly acquired ability to introduce myself to strangers I was able to find friends and a feeling of home within the first month. If you are able to make college feel like a second home, you will be more successful in all aspects of school.

Bang for the buck

Western is a reasonable school and they are trying to help students through programs like the Western Edge. No matter where you go, college is going to cost you, so I am glad I am spending my money on a school with excellent professors, academic programs, and an inviting campus.

Am enjoying being here

Living in the dorms gave me the opportunity to meet many diverse people. Whether we were playing board games in someone's room or enjoying an evening out I was always able to find a way to enjoy myself and take a break from the books.

Am learning a lot

Inside the classrooms, I was taught by lively, helpful, and informative professors. Outside the classroom, I learned a lot about myself through living in the dorm and participating in extra-curricular activities.

Michele from Troy, MI

07/25/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

6 out of 7 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Western is a medium size school. students have to be OK with a 5 minute walk to most of your class and your class sizes could be 30 or 200. The size also means there are a variety of students. Whatever your into chances are Western has it.

Tips for prospective students

My biggest suggestion would be to stay in the dorms your freshman year. It's cheaper to rent an apartment, but the dorms allow you to experience an atmosphere an apartment won't give you. It's an easy opportunity to make friends and connection. It also has a variety of jobs right in your dorm (front desk or cafeteria).

Bang for the buck

Kalamazoo's tuition isn't bad, but the campus and the city does a great job at providing services for you. You can find free tutoring for about any subject and your student id card will let you ride the city buses for free.

Am enjoying being here

The dorms do a great job at always having something to do and Kalamazoo has your standard city stuff (mall, wal-mart, bowling).

Am learning a lot

I just finished my freshman year for a mechanical engineering degree. The course I took were pretty standard and nothing new, but looking forward, western offers some unique and exciting classes.

Pre-Med Girl

12/30/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

4 out of 4 people found this review useful.
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Tips for prospective students

Make sure that your intended major is a major offered by WMU. We have a huge selection to choose from but there are few types not provided such as architecture. Don't get caught up in partying a lot or your grades will suffer and you will regret it later as some of my friends have learned.

Bang for the buck

Western is one of the most affordable universities in Michigan. I do not come from a family with much money and I am paying for my education myself. Western has been very helpful in providing me with enough financial aid and scholarships to pay for my education.

Am enjoying being here

I have always been the student that liked learning and going to school, but I was worried that might change in college because it is harder than high school. I didn't need to worry. I really like WMU a lot. The campus is beautiful and clean. Students are active and healthy, there is not too much of the freshman weight gain happening as much. The only thing that I dislike would be its reputation as a party school. I am not a big party-person, but I am worried medical schools may view me as one because of where I went to undergrad and think I am unfocused. Hopefully my resume and transcript will counteract that.

Am learning a lot

As a pre-med student at WMU I am required to take very challenging classes. However, I have done extremely well and have made the Dean's List every semester that I have been here. This is due partially to my hard work and focus, and also because of the Professors. I have had only one bad Professor during my time here thus far; they are far less common than the good ones. The majority of Professors are enthusiastic about teaching, care about their students (even though they may have hundreds) and try very hard to make time to meet with you/accommodate you if you have questions or are struggling. Everyone at Western wants you to be successful.

Christopher from Concord, MI

01/24/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

4 out of 4 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Any one who is willing to come and have a great time at college is encouraged to come and look at what Western Michigan University has to offer. As they say here GRAB THE REIGNS AT WESTERN..... GO BRONCOS

Tips for prospective students

go into your dorm blind don't live with someone you know you wont make as many friends as you would with someone random. Become friends with the RA he/she is a great asset to you and he/she is not here just to get you into trouble. Also if you start to see the same faces in your classes when you get here befriend them they are your best study groups.

Bang for the buck

Dorm life is a little high for the price but i really think that for the money you cant beat WMU, the professor are always nice and willing to work with you, the Teacher Assistants on the other hand can be more difficult to work with

Am enjoying being here

I love living on campus the fact that all of these people live around me and there is never a dull moment living here. Kalamazoo is a great town there is a great night life downtown which is not far at all.

Am learning a lot

I would have to base this question off of lots of different things, i am learning a lot academically but who doesn't when the step in the front door to college? I also am learning a lot about myself that I never knew, i am learning how to deal with people who get on my case. Students coming you the best thing i can tell you is TIME MANAGE.

Janae from Redford, MI

12/30/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

4 out of 4 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

WMU has been name one of the top schools in 2011 already! You can look up facts about the school and they are all true. We have a great College of Aviation and also Business College. WMU is for someone that is sociable and if not you will turn into one. It's for a student that loves to be interactive. This is a place for someone that will represent their university with pride. If you have great heart and spirit come to WMU because it's always a great day to be a BRONCO!

Tips for prospective students

I would say when you consider a college/university make sure you visit the campus a few times. Make sure that you connect with the people and the campus. Also know that the academics are top notch. Yes, college is a fun experience but your studies come first. You will see at WMU that we study first and play later and that's the kind of school you school be looking for. There are plenty things to do after all the hard work of studying is done like plays, student organizations, the recreation center and much more. We have all that you are looking for; great people, academics, food, events, organizations, safety, and love.

Bang for the buck

I am attending a school that doesn't cost as much as the other colleges that I considered going to. I also appreciate the fact that they offer scholarships for their students too. You will not be upset that you chose WMU because they have so many jobs that you can apply for on campus and off campus. You can have money in your pocket and help pay off your tuition. In your meal plans they have BroncoBucks which allows you to use that money to catch a quick snack at any of the cafes around the campus.

Am enjoying being here

The people that attend WMU make the campus a better place to learn and grow. I meet so many faces and learn new things each day. I can be myself and become more comfortable about being on my own. I am always at peace on the campus because they have a 24-hour police watch. I can choose from over 300 registered students organizations and really become apart of a great community of students. I am currently a member of Voices of WMU Gospel Choir just to start off my freshmen year. For my next semester I plan to join Ad Club and YBBW. That is what makes Western Michigan so great because they have so many organizations for a specific religion, culture, race, major, and hobby. I love WMU because we are so diverse and embrace the differences in each other. There is always something going on at WMU. We have so many events that take place there. We have theater plays, musicals and concerts at happen in the Miller Auditorium. And if you don't know when or where something is happening ask someone. Another way to find out what's happening on campus is to look at the ground because someone is always writing on the ground with chalk, so they can get the word out. I can go the recreation center and play basketball, work-out, take a yoga class, rock climb and many other great activities.

Am learning a lot

I receive great teaching from professors that love what they do. They come into the lecture halls ready to give their all to the students. I am able to speak with my professors and get all they help that I need. I have a blocked schedule for my business courses and that allows me to have two small classes with the same students. I can talk to the teacher easier and I can become really close to my classmates.

Bridget from Saint Joseph, MI

Anyone who wants to learn and grow as a person. You will love it here, I promise!

Tips for prospective students

You have to go to a school that is going to make you happy. Forget what you friends think, what your parents think, or what money says. Forget it all, and focus on yourself. Where will you be happy? If money is an issue, realize that there are always scholarships and loans. Even if your parents or friends don't agree with your decisions, you can't let that affect you either. Definitely take what they say into consideration, but realize that if you are not happy where you're at, they won't be either.

Bang for the buck

Before deciding on Western, I was contemplating on going to private school. Although I got a pretty generous scholarship from a certain private school in particular, in the end I decided on Western. Compared to the many other public schools in Michigan, Western is definitely one of the best as far as price goes. Obviously economic times are hard, but Western has been really helpful with scholarships.

Am enjoying being here

I am involved in a lot of things here at WMU. I am in a group called Intervarsity, I am on an intermural football team, I am a part of a social justice group on sex trafficking, I am part of an events team, and I am part of the Lee Honors College. I love the many different things I can get involved in. Western has so many student organizations, there is literally something for everyone here. And if there isn't a group you feel you belong to, you can make your own! It's really great. College is not only about the academic aspects, but it is also important that you are happy and making relationships here. I have met so many incredible people, and I have been able to express myself by becoming a part of the many different things offered to me.

Am learning a lot

No matter how great the school is, you are going to get out what you put in. That being said, I feel like Western is preparing me so well for my future career. Every single one of my classes--though challenging me a lot at times--is beneficial to me. My professors are interesting, and are truly passionate about the subject. They also have high expectations of their students, which really pushes you to give it your all.

Breanna from Grand Rapids, MI

03/21/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

3 out of 3 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

On occasion I will be outside after dark, I don't get home from work until anywhere from 10pm-5am and not once do I ever fear. Of course I remain alert regardless of whether I'm scared or not. But there are usually campus security that will walk with you if you are a bit weary.

Greek Life

Greek life is everything you think it is. There is a strong sense of brotherhood or sisterhood and togetherness. They tend to throw parties but also engages in numerous community service acts and raise money for businesses or charities that they find necessary.

Clubs and Activities

There are tons and tons of clubs that you can join, everything from a Ski Club to foreign language clubs to organizations such as YBM (Young Black Males). You're never alone here because there is always an organization that you can join and if there isn't one you are able to start one on your own!

Great for these types of students

This school is great for every type of students: from the 4.0 student that always studies to the stereotyped frat brother that parties from Thursday night to Sunday morning. There's always a quite place to study or some eventful gathering in place where you can meet people very different from you and people that you share similar interests with.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

As of unusual traditions, though I don't consider this day unusual in any way, I would have to say the celebration of Saint Patrick's day had to be the most celebrated holiday I've ever seen in my entire high school career. Every race and ethnicity took part and though I was at work, from the looks of it everyone seemed to have a great time

Bang for the buck

Though I think anything ranging in the thousands is alot, this has to be one of the cheaper institutions that I have attended and been accepted to.

What to do for fun

For fun, especially in the spring and fall, the Recreation Center is the most student filled building during the evenings. There you can play volleyball, basketball, swim, lift weights, rock climb, take Zumba lessons and so much more. Other than that I see people play Frisbee outside, walk their dogs, and simply lay out on the grass and watch the clouds roll through.

Food and Dining

The campus is surrounded by delicious eatery. Jimmy Johns, Campus Wok, Fazoli's, Wendy's, etc. They normally have student specials and coupons also which is really helpful. In terms of the cafeteria, the one that I'm personally closes to is alright, but if I walk a tad bit further the food in there is pretty delicious and it's a remodeled and newer cafeteria!

Dorm Life

Dorm life is pretty convenient. Living in the puts you in close proximity to your classes, the cafeterias, and friends. Discounts are available depending on your GPA and the rooms are an decent size.

Academic Rigor

In terms of academics, some professors or instructors are more strict than others. More often than not, extra credit opportunities are available at least once during the semester. Every instructor and professor has office hours in which you can go to if you need to discuss your grade, any interests you have in the subject, or problems that you have with the material. Easy classes can have a heavy workload making it hard and hard classes can have a light workload which potentially makes the final exam that much more harder because you don't review the material as often. Take every class seriously and you should be fine.

Tips for prospective students

People quickly make friends here whether you're shy or a social butterfly so there isn't really anything to worry about in regards to being alone. As I mentioned earlier, you'll obtain a good education here. As well as enjoy everything campus has to offer from academic guidance to current pop stars coming to perform.

In three sentences

WMU is an excellent university to obtain your degree. While here, you'll watch yourself grow mentally as well as intellectually. I am glad that I chose to attend school here.

Jordan from Dexter, MI

10/09/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

2 out of 2 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Western is great for students who want to learn both in and out of the classroom. There are opportunities for every type of student - those who like to study, those who like to party, and those who would like a responsible mix of both.

Tips for prospective students

Look into becoming an honors college student! It is a wonderful community to be a member of. I would also recommend taking a First Year Experience course, a class designed to help freshmen transition to collegiate life. This class has been a great way for me to meet new people to explore the world with.

Bang for the buck

Apply early to get the most scholarships possible!

Am enjoying being here

The campus is gorgeous! I love the sense of community that is fostered here as well.

Am learning a lot

I am a student in the Honors College at Western Michigan University. In my senior year of high school, I didn't think that Western would be a good fit for me because I thought that the academics wouldn't be rigorous enough or that I wouldn't find a challenge in the classroom. However, it's very different from what I thought it would be like! I have a great variety of classes - I enjoy the pace of my honors level courses while also being in easier general education classes.

Tyler from North Muskegon, MI

Anyone with an interest in the Liberal Arts, Performing Arts, Aviation, Business or Education (it's one of the top 10 Education producers in the country)

Tips for prospective students

Join an RSO, it's a great way to meet a lot of people who have similar interests as you. The amount ranges so much it's mind boggling. Also, try to get off campus and explore downtown Kalamazoo's restaurants and venues. There's a lot there and it can be hard for if you're new to the area check out this site: http://eventful.com/kalamazoo/events. Also, I'm studying in Japan right now, and I can't recommend their study abroad program. It can be cheaper than regular WMU tuition (based on where you're going) and there are some great scholarships for covering the costs.

Bang for the buck

The overall tuition ranks fairly low compared to the rest of the public University's in Michigan. Last I checked it was 13th out of 15th in terms of the highest priced as of 2008 (1st being the most expensive). Also, it is ranked as one of the top public University's year after year according to US News. So, it really is a great deal, but my only complaint is that although tuition is low, living on campus is expensive with a lot of nickel and dime fees that can annoy you (parking passes, Wired internet fees, mini fridge rentals, etc.), however as a freshmen you don't have to live on campus, and is something to consider based on your financial situation.

Am enjoying being here

At first, becoming a freshmen was stressful, but the college's community is friendly for the most part, and after getting familiarized with the campus, it became obvious to me that there is something here for everyone thanks to all the different RSOs (Registered Student Organizations-- on campus groups). It ranges from a Sport's Club, to a Movie Club, to tabletop gaming (think DnD or MTG), a Whimsicality Club, an equestrian club, and the list continues. There's over 300 RSOs on campus, and there's always one that seems to fit peoples needs, making it a lot of fun. Also, the campus has a very safe feel to it at night, with paths being well lit, and a well staffed police force that's exclusive to the University that vigilantly monitors the campus.

Am learning a lot

I feel that Western is a great school once you begin to specialize in classes beyond the General Education curriculum. That being said, the General Education classes aren't bad per se, but some teachers seem to be apathetic since the majority of their class is filled with students that don't care about their class subject. However, once you specialize in classes toward your major, the quality picks up immensely. Teachers go into a great deal for each class and have never disappointed, even some with the most abnormal teaching styles. This is definitely a great University to consider.

Matthew from Grand Rapids, MI

03/05/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

2 out of 2 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Someone who loves to have a good time and meet some of the most interesting and generally laid back people. But they must be able to regulate when to have fun and when to make sure to get ones work done.

Tips for prospective students

Its really easy to get distracted with everything that is going on around you. Make sure you stay on track and put school first and fun second.

Bang for the buck

It's a really good school for the money. Lots of scholarships available for the student who looks hard enough.

Am enjoying being here

I would definitely suggest living on campus for at least a year. The local community is awesome! I have meet so many amazing people. Definitely made some friends for life.

Am learning a lot

A very wide variety of classes there's something for everyone. The teachers are usually very helpful with any problems you have. One negative is there are quite a few teachers with VERY heavy accents making it hard to follow what is happening in class.

Hilary from Kalamazoo, MI

05/07/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

WMU is great for students in the performing arts majors, such as dance and music, and also for aviation students, which is the program I am in. Western is rated as one of the top three aviation colleges in the entire U.S.

Tips for prospective students

Apply for scholarships EARLY!! This is extremely important unless you're rich and don't need the help with tuition.

Bang for the buck

Scholarships definitely help with the tuition, but overall WMU's rates are not bad. I'm from Michigan, so I get the in-state tuition rate, which of course is less than the out-of-state tuition. However, Western has many scholarships and grants available to help offset your costs.

Am enjoying being here

College is way better than high school. You don't have to get up at 7 every morning (unless you get stuck with an 8am class). Everyone is so nice at WMU, including all the professors. I have yet to run into someone who's yelling at someone else or being rude in some other way. And my freshman year was great, no one even mentioned how I was younger then them.

Am learning a lot

I definitely love WMU! The classes are not killer, but they're extremely interactive and painfully easy either. I love the labs that go with classes, they help me gain the concepts of what I'm learning easier.

Wendy

Foreign exchange students students who like clubs/organizations (there are so many to chose from) Aviation is really big at Western as well as engineering and health

Tips for prospective students

Don't be afraid to be yourself, to have fun, or to make friends. Do you're best and try not to skip/miss class, some attendance is mandatory and some is optional however sometimes when there are only a few students you get extra credit for being there. You 500 free prints at the computer so totally take advantage of that If you live on campus you can get a scholarship that will pay for your room.

Bang for the buck

In all honesty college is expensive, specially at universities and books are crazy as well, even if you get the books new they buy them back at such a low price. However it depends on the condition and if there is a new book every semester. All in all you get an OK-pretty good price, being a student you get discounts and free things from a discounted movie - a discounted concert or even a free t-shirt - a free concert.

Did enjoy being here

I enjoyed my western experience and I am so happy I went. The campus is so beautiful and full of live, not only people but animals and trees. Although all the people are not nice most of the people I met are still my friends and I go to western to visit them from time to time.

Did learn a lot

I learned several things, not only in the classroom but out of it as well. I learned to be more open and more outgoing. People at Western are pretty friendly and fun. I learned geese can fly and that I am afraid of them. I learned some teachers really care and will help you anytime you need it as well as some are not so great. I learned to wake up early enough to actually eat breakfast because you need it when walking to and from class.

JT from Wyoming, MI

06/27/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Music students (especially jazz), nursing majors (we are getting a School of Medicine soon!), and education majors will find we have amazing programs. I can't speak for the rest of the University, but I have heard they are all excellent. The fun, the outgoing, and the knowledge-hungry student will love it here!

Tips for prospective students

Stay on campus for at least one year. You'll make new friends and get all of that homework done! Bring a car. It's tough to find a spot, but worth it if you can go home or shopping or work or wherever you want to. Don't stay in any of the Valley dorms. It is a 20 minute walk to the main part of campus, uphill both ways, and the geese that live over there are loud in the morning. Get the Gold meal plan. It's only a little more money, but you can get food as many times as you want. Apply for a campus job. It will help! Check out a football game and at least one hockey game while you're here. They are crazy fun. See if you are eligible for the Honors College. You get priority registration, smaller classes, and a whole host of awesome resources. Get involved! Join a club. Volunteer. Donate blood. Be outgoing, and be yourself!

Bang for the buck

The school is relatively cheap and worth every dollar! The programs are as good as the best private schools and state universities, and the class sizes are way smaller than the big universities, so you really get the individual focus from professors. It is worth paying for a parking pass and bringing your car. Get the Gold meal plan (it costs a bit more, but you will have unlimited meals!).

Am enjoying being here

I have stayed on campus. The dorms are nice, the food is great, and the people are awesome! The Campus Activities Board brings in famous artists, Broadway shows, and many other activities all the time. Almost anything you need will be within a few miles of campus (it's worth bringing a car!). There are festivals all the time, and the sports events can't be beat! Go Broncos!

Academic Rigor

I am a student in the School of Music (I am a music education major), and every day I am blown away by just how good the professors are. They are all very experienced and extremely talented and knowledgeable.

Bernard from Detroit, MI

07/01/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Tips for prospective students

If your thinking of attending WMU I would advise you to get everything you need for school ahead of time. Make sure your books will arrive on time, you have looked over the campus map, and you understand how bronco express works.

Bang for the buck

Tuition at WMU can be a little pricey, especially for out of staters, but WMU does give you a very good finical aid package which helps take care of most of the cost. There's also several different scholarships the school offers to its student that will help out with any remaining cost. Overall, finical aid and few scholarships or a small student loan should get the tuition portion taken care of.

Am enjoying being here

WMU's campus is really nice. Fall welcome helps you meet a lot of cool people before classes even start, so you'll already have a few people to hang out with. On top of that freshman are required to take a class called FYE(First Year Experience) and the class really helps you get more comfortable with the campus. If your not a winter person though WMU may not be for you. Kalamazoo gets A LOT!!!! of snow in the winter and I mean a lot. Overall campus is really cool, the people are nice, classes are in walking distance, and there's a lot for you to do with your share time.

Am learning a lot

WMU has great professor. Their very interactive with the students even in the larger lecture halls. If your having any problems in class, all the professor have office hours throughout the week which they encourage students to attend. Other than office hours, there are many different resources on campus to help you with any problems you have. I've learned a lot my first two semesters, and was quite surprised how helpful the professors are.

Hailey from Romulus, MI

Any student who is AWESOME! This school is amazing in everything that they have to offer! There isn't a certain description of a Bronco; everyone is so different and unique in their own way.

Tips for prospective students

Be yourself! If you're open to new things, Western is the place for you! I joined some organizations and clubs on campus that have lead me to my position as Vice President of the student government on campus! Get involved! There's tons of things that are available to YOU on campus and in the Kalamazoo community! Did I mention FREE T-SHIRTS? You will probably own at the least, 3 free shirts by the end of your first semester at WMU.

Bang for the buck

Definitely! If you have any problems or concerns with your financial aid, there are people to help, who are actually nice! Professors are also required to have office hours in which are time blocks for you to meet with them for questions, help or clarification on certain things! The professors are super cool and are usually willing to help!!!

Am enjoying being here

There's no place like home ... and Western is home! From the moment I took my tour, I knew WMU was the college for me. It has this warm, welcoming yet SCHOOL SPIRITED vibe to it.. Everyone's always smiling, speaking to one another on campus. There are plenty of times where our very own President of the university, Dr.Dunn will be walking in the student center or out on campus and will actually speak with students, genuinely! Western is probably the epitome of inclusiveness. With students from nearly 90 different countries and over 300 student organizations to join ... there's never a dull moment! I

Am learning a lot

This is my 3rd year at Western Michigan University and I've learned so much. Being that I'm involved in various organizations on campus that serve very different purposes, I have learned things about different cultures, myself .. I grew professionally and I am currently gaining a diverse education. There are a wide range of general education courses that students are required to take; some can pertain to your major while others may be polar opposites. I have had the chance to learn about other fields of study and still have that class count towards my graduation!

Thomas from Edmore, MI

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
19 of 201

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Great for these types of students

Western has great Aviation and Business programs as well as many other top ranking programs. The campus is just the right size, and everyone who I have talked to really seems to enjoy going there.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure you visit the campus to see what it would be like if you went there and take advantage of their on-site application process. You just give them your information and by the end of the day, they will let you know if you can or will be able to become a student at Western Michigan University.

Bang for the buck

The college of aviation is kind of pricey, but with the thousands of scholarships and ROTC which is offered, I believe that I should get through without racking up thousands of dollars in debt, which is really important to me.

Will enjoy being here

The athletic center and the dorms were nice and even though I was only on a tour, it felt like someplace I would enjoy spending the next four years of my life.

Will learn a lot

I plan to go to the College of Aviation and am really excited. On my tour everyone was knowledgeable and willing to answer any questions I had. Their program is one of the best in the nation and the fact that it is right here in Michigan makes it an easy choice for anyone who wants to get into the aviation field.

get involved within the first m,onth. don't wait until the semester or year is over. getting involved not only allows you to make great friends but it can be of a big help to you both academically and career wise.

In three sentences

western michigan offers a variety of degrees and the colleges are top notch. the are tons of registered students organizations on campus so you can't ever be bored. the diversity on campus makes it easy to learn about different cultures.

Joseph from Grand Ledge, MI

I really never had to contact campus saftey. So I assume they're doing their job well!

Clubs and Activities

I'm a part of only a couple but I really want to get involved in more. I've met so many awesome people this year being involved with different clubs and organizations!

Great for these types of students

Anyone!

Bang for the buck

I really wasn't impressed with how overpriced room and board was this year. This is probably the main reason why I'm moving off campus. Especially since the quality of the dorms or the food wasn't all that great. However, this is probably the only downside to living on campus.

What to do for fun

Thankfully, there's a workout room in my dorm and there's a huge recreation center on campus that I go to from time to time. Other than that, I enjoy going to student organizations and going out to some local restaurants and bars.

Food and Dining

Sometimes the dining halls will have really really good things to eat... sometimes, the dining halls will have really really awful things to eat. It depends on the day, so make sure you're checking the dining menu or just get a sandwich.

Dorm Life

My dorm experience wasn't the greatest, to be honest. I lived in Valley 3 and only befriended a handful of students from there. I'm not really sure if many of the students ever did anything other than party and who knows what else. Also, the dorms were kind of pricey for me. I'm moving off campus next year and I'm saving a lot of money by living only a few miles down the road.

Academic Rigor

My first semester of my Freshman year, was a challenge to adjust from high school to college. The professors here are hit and miss with some of their classroom procedures but all of the professors I've had so far really expect a lot of responsibility from you.

Tips for prospective students

Apply for scholarships early! Also get to know the buildings before you attend your first day of classes. Western's campus was a bit confusing to me at first and it took me a while to get used to the building layouts.

In three sentences

I'm really happy that I decided to come to Western for my Freshman year of college. I've met a lot of fun and interesting people and I'm starting to become involved in a lot of student organizations and I can't wait to come back next fall!!!

Kelsey from Laingsburg, MI

04/14/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
22 of 201

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What to do for fun

There are tons of activities to do for fun around Kalamazoo and Western Michigan University. You can play club or intramural sports, attend sporting events (for free!) or ride the city buses to the mall and just hang out for the day.

Food and Dining

The food is quite good on campus. There is a large majority throughout the dining halls, and you can eat at any one that you wish!

Dorm Life

As a freshman, I highly recommend living in the Valleys. There are tons of new students that live there and everyone is extremely friendly. You will make plenty of new friends and always have something to do. The dorms in general are pretty good sized, I'd say. You have space for yourself and for your roommate.

Academic Rigor

Western's classes are quite fair, I've had my share of harder classes, but most of the time professors are willing to talk to you and help you do better. After all, you are paying for the class, so you might as well make your money worth it.

Tips for prospective students

I would highly recommend freshman to live in the Valleys on campus, getting a feel for the college life, and making that adjustment to not being at home.

In three sentences

Western Michigan University has a lot to offer, from the location, people, and activities. Located in Kalamazoo, Western students can get from place to place with ease. There are all types of people that attend Western so you are bound to find a group where you fit in and activities you can participate in.

Ashley from Kalamazoo, MI

10/02/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
23 of 201

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Campus Safety

Campus safety is defiantly a first here so I wouldn't be too worried. They are always driving around and you can always ask for help for something. If you don't feel safe walking back to your dorm or something happens you can call and they will assist you.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

All I have to say is Humans vs. Zombies... CAMPUS WIDE!!! Bring your nerf guns and load up.

What to do for fun

They have all types of extracurricular activities and I think almost everything under the sun is offered. If you don't see something you like then get a couple friends together and make one. They also have something going on in the dorms every week, so you have so many chances.

Food and Dining

There are 5 different dining halls on campus and I know there is one on the Engineering campus. The food here is pretty good, I personally wish there were more healthy options though and whenever I don't have class and can grab something the entree is never out. I wish they would put dining hall where the fine arts buildings are because there really isn't anything to eat unless you want to pay out of pocket.

Dorm Life

I really like dorm life here, I got paired up really well and I love how each branch of major can group together in a certain dorm. For instance, I am in Engineering and the Engineering Society (so to speak) was placed in Bigelow this year. You still have problems that any campus would with some people doing drugs and drinking but so far it really isn't that bad and the people are great. Fun activities too!

Academic Rigor

Depends on what kind if classes you are in, the higher you get in college (and depending on your major) the classes become extremely hard. I would be careful of the math courses here. I have heard many things and I am going through a really bad math teacher currently.

Tips for prospective students

I hope you have your walking shoes. This campus is all on some hills so your calf's will look amazing by the end of 2nd semester, especially if you live in the Vally's. If you do plan on coming here and you are going to orientation, go on the first one. If you do this then even though the rest of the school has chosen their classes (except the first years) you get first pick (out of the first year students) for classes.

In three sentences

Beautiful campus and almost everything is on main campus for your general classes and most majors. The have many opportunities to get involved in whatever you prefer. If you need to get to the Engineering campus, nursing campus, or aviation flight line (all off main campus) there are buses running for convenience.

The Campus Run in the fall is a blast. The memorial to veterans is overwhelming. Miller Auditorium books some of the best talent.

Bang for the buck

Cost of living is moderate. Bus transit system is very good.

What to do for fun

WMU football games are a blast. WMU boasts 5 NFL players. WMU Hockey team rocks.

Food and Dining

Food on campus is very good.

Dorm Life

I lived off campus.

Academic Rigor

My last three semesters at WMU, (Summer I, Summer II, and Fall) I took 14 credits, 15 credits and 19 credits, respectively, and graduated Cum Laude. I am not the most intelligent person therefore I would rate the academic rigor low.

Tips for prospective students

Meet with your high school counselor as early as 9th grade and take a foreign language for four years in high school. This typically will fulfill your foreign language requirement at any university.

In three sentences

Western Michigan University located in Kalamazoo, Michigan is an amazing university. The university strives to keep up with current technology. The city of Kalamazoo is small and is it fairly inexpensive to live here. Diversity on campus and in the town of Kalamazoo.

Anonymous

03/13/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
25 of 201

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What to do for fun

1) Catch a Miller Movie, WMU usually has a monthly movie 2) Go ice skating at the hockey stadium 3) Check out some activities going on around campus 4) Go to the Airzoo 5) Check out the rec center, there's so much to do there!

Food and Dining

I suggest getting a smaller meal plan, although you have to keep track of how many meals you've had during the week, it saves you quite a bit of money. You also get some dining dollars to spend at some of the cafes on campus. Bistro 3 and Hoejke/Bigelow are probably the best dining halls to go to. A huge con about the dining hall is that it closes at 8. Late night carry out is available, but it's basically just a sandwich and some chips. Good thing there are a ton of places that will deliver to your dorm! Check out Campus Wok, it's one of the better Chinese places in town and is really close to campus.

Dorm Life

I've stayed in both the suite and community style dorms. Suite style dorms are 2 rooms connected by a bathroom in the center and are shared with 4 people. It's nice if you enjoy the privacy, but you need to clean it yourself and bring your own supplies. The floors are also co-ed. Community style dorms are usually floors split by gender, each floor shares a community style bathroom. You don't have to worry about any cleaning or providing your own toilet paper. The only thing is, the bathrooms aren't cleaned on Sundays! It can get pretty gross with 20 something people sharing a bathroom. For both living options you have an option for sharing with a roommate or having a single. The singles go fast, so apply early.

Academic Rigor

If you space out your schedule to give yourself enough time to do coursework and studying, you should be fine. There are plenty of tutoring labs and supplemental instruction for just about any class at WMU if you're having any difficulties.

Tips for prospective students

1) Take advantage of the bus, it's free! 2) Use DSK (Drive Safe Kalamazoo). If you've been out drinking and need a ride home, DSK is your friend. 3) Go to the tutoring labs if you're struggling with a class. It's definitely worth the time. 4) Go on rate my professor before registering for classes to see what you're getting into. 5) Go to Bistro 3 for late night, they have shakes, ice cream, and other goodies!

In three sentences

Great food downtown and free transportation! It's pretty much a bar town, so it's great if you're 21. If not, there are plenty of parties on or around campus.

Hayley from Brimley, MI

05/03/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
26 of 201

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Campus Safety

You always see cops driving around. We have our own campus cops and there are tons of phones around cmapus in case of emergencies. There is also an alert system that Western has that contacts you when something happens on or near campus.

Greek Life

I'm in a social sorority and it is has been a really great experience. Especially if you live far away and don't have much friends at Western, like myself. I have met many people (NETWORKING IS ALL I HAVE TO SAY) and have learned a lot about Western and the Kalamazoo community.

Clubs and Activities

Like I said, tons and tons of clubs and stuff to do around campus. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise. We are everything but boring.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Don't walk on the big W at Waldo Library!

Bang for the buck

Western is an amazing school. I have made the best choice coming here and wouldn't change it for the world. Also, Barack Obama named Western one of the top schools in America that gave you your bang for your buck.

What to do for fun

Join clubs that you are interested in. There are tons of things to be involved in.

Food and Dining

The food was pretty good for the most part. The only thing I didn't like was the hours of the cafeterias.

Dorm Life

Typical dorm life. Decent food. Decent rooms.

Academic Rigor

Most of the professors at Western are extremely intelligent and have a lot of experience in their field. The classes are only hard if you don't stay on top of your work and don't study. Also, go and see your teachers if you need help, believe me, it'll do you a lot of good!

Tips for prospective students

Stay on top of your work and get involved with every thing that you can!

Elizabeth from Saint Joseph, MI

01/25/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

27 of 201

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Great for these types of students

As many people have heard, Western does have a lot parties all through out the week. But it is still a good school for students who do not go to parties, like me. I can get a full nights sleep even on the weekend.

Tips for prospective students

Do your research. Make sure that you know what size of school you want and watch out for majors and minors! Check to see that they have the programs that you are interested in.

Bang for the buck

Just like any other university, it is expensive. It is cheaper than other schools located in Michigan. The only cost that I think is really obnoxious is the cost of food. They charge too much for their weekly meal plans.

Am enjoying being here

I am not currently involved in anything, but am planning on it next year. The students and faculty are very friendly and smile and say hi to you in the halls.

Am learning a lot

All of my profs so far have been really helpful. They want their students to do well here and they expect them to seek help if necessary and they will help them.

Elizabeth from Parma, MI

02/20/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

28 of 201

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Great for these types of students

We have an amazing Fine Arts program here, one of the best in the country. We also have really good programs for Engineering, Education, Aviation, and Business. However, this is something here for everyone!

Tips for prospective students

Go out and meet people!! Don't be afraid, everyone else is nervous too. But once you immerse yourself with things and people you enjoy and like, your time here will be so much fun. Also, manage your time wisely and don't get too ahead of yourself.

Bang for the buck

The tuition here is not that bad compared to other universities. With the help of financial aid, scholarships, and loans, it will be very easy to pay the tuition. They obviously would love for you to come here and receive a Bronco education, so they make it easy!

Am enjoying being here

I LOVE it at Western! The campus is beautiful and the environment is great. The students are friendly and outgoing. Campus is just the right size where you can almost see someone you know every day walking around, and the farthest walk to class is about 10 or 15 minutes. There are a lot of student organizations, intramural sports, and club sports that you can join that are a lot of fun. There is always something going on in the dorms, too. There are a bunch of activities for a bunch of different interests!

Am learning a lot

The academics offered at WMU are amazing. There are so many courses to choose from, and there is always something for everyone! The professors are wonderful, they always stress that they are available for meetings, questions, and help. They usually have office hours twice a week where students can talk one on one with the professor. Also, there are a lot of tutoring and help centers that are quite useful.

Shannon from Adrian, MI

02/25/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

29 of 201

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Great for these types of students

This school is great for students who care about their education and like to have fun! Western is an amazing school for students who love to socialize. Western is also a great school for those students who love to study because our library is open from 6 am until 3 am, almost 24 hours. Western is a good school for diverse students, students who like to express who they are.

Tips for prospective students

Some tips for going to western are; bring your snow boots! always be on time to your class because the professors love to start at the exact time as the class starts, always pay attention in lectures because most exams are based off information in lectures, always read your assignments before the class period because it is easier to follow and understand the lectures, always keep your room door open unless your studying because meeting friends in college with reduce the amount of stress, specially during finals week. Never say no to campus tours because knowing your campus is very important. Make sure to be proactive in campus activities and extracurricular activities because staying busy is proven that students do better when they are busy and not always asleep or bored. I wish any student looking into western good luck and enjoy it because Western is an amazing school!

Bang for the buck

Westerns tuition cost is at a reasonable price for college education. Everything that tuition covers is worth spending the money on college and the experience. how many times will you get the opportunity to be young and in college? not many times. Westerns rates are worth the spending because of the level of education you receive during your college experience. What you spend is what you get is what i like to say. the amount of money we spend at Western is what we get. Western will do anything in their power to provide you with a job after college or acceptance to graduate school. I rate westerns bang for the buck high because i believe we get more than everything we need out of what we spend.

Am enjoying being here

I enjoy being at Western because i currently am in greek life (Alpha phi). going greek was the best decision i have made being at western. There is always something to do when you are not studying. There has never been one time where i am sitting in my room bored because at western there are various groups and extracurricular activities you can join. I am a CAB representative for alpha phi, WSA member, prelaw society, mock trial and many more. I encourage anyone who plans to go to western to join the greek life community. Greek life expands your horizon in meeting all kinds of new people and being part of a sisterhood or brotherhood is truly amazing. Having friends there for you is something you will need to survive in college. I absolutely love being at western, when i come home i can honestly say that i get home sick from western. I have met so many new friends, while also meeting my best friend who will end up being my friend for life.

Am learning a lot

I have learned more than what i expected here at Western Michigan University. The professors are amazing and are active in their teaching styles. There are various types of teaching styles taught by different professors such as pictures, slide shows, lecture and hands on activities. I have actually learned something and remembered it, not study the material for the exams and forget what i learned. Here at western i have learned so much in my major and will definitely use that after college

Stephanie from Lake Orion, MI

06/09/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

31 of 201

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Great for these types of students

This is a great school for students who are interested in growing as a person. I have seen myself grow a ton over the years and the atmosphere is great. For Me it has been a great home away from home I live 2 hours away from WMU and its great to be in state and far enough away so that you don't go home every weekend!

Tips for prospective students

Visit the campus you will love it!

Bang for the buck

yep! your paying for it so at the end of the day how u do, whether or not you go to class and all of that stuff will determine if you had the real bang for your buck!

Am enjoying being here

There are many things to look forward to in the beginning of the year there is Bronco Bash where there are many booths set up with different businesses from around Kalamazoo giving away free stuff and letting campus know they are out here. People are very nice there is never a time that I don't walk on campus and not speak to someone!

Am learning a lot

My major is Biomedical Sciences and I am studying to become a dentist in the future, right now I am taking most of the science classes geared toward the major then I will focus on applying to professional school. I am fine with the learning especially when you have wonderful people to study with it makes learning awesome.

Rachel

06/24/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

32 of 201

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Great for these types of students

If you love being around a diverse group of people who enjoy having fun but you can be serious about your education at the same time, Western is a great place for you. Students just have to know how to balance work and play.

Tips for prospective students

Be outgoing and take an interest in learning more about the school.

Bang for the buck

When applying to colleges they should warn you that they are business institutions with bills that need to be paid so they disguise themselves as a school. For example, Western was supposed to pass a grant for a building that they're remodeling, but instead of passing it they decided that the students should foot the bill. There was a 6.6% increase in tuition for my second year.

Am enjoying being here

Being two hours away from my family and boyfriend were the only drag to this past year. Other than that, I enjoyed the city, the people, the campus, and my classes.

Am learning a lot

As a freshman at WMU a lot of my basic classes were a review from high school. However, I did happen to take a few other classes that were new to me and I learned quite a bit in them.

Andrew from Muskegon, MI

07/03/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

33 of 201

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Great for these types of students

WMU is a very laid back community. If you like to have fun, you'll have fun here. If you're studious, there's plenty of others just like you. WMU is great for every type of student. The beauty of WMU is that it molds itself around you and who you are. You can be whatever type of student you want and you'll still fit in perfectly.

Tips for prospective students

Don't be shy. Put yourself out there and you'll fit in quickly. If you spend your first year in the dorms, don't stay in your room. If you have too then leave your door open. Otherwise, get out and explore campus. People want to meet you but you have to be in a position where they can approach you. WMU offers many activities and programs so there's no excuse to not get out there.

Bang for the buck

For a division 1 university, the price is not as bad as compared to other schools of the same caliber. It still is on the pricey side and with tuition increases it can become difficult to pay for. However, if you find a way to fund your education at Western Michigan University, you will not be disappointed.

Am enjoying being here

Western Michigan University is a very accepting campus and one that is easy to get used too. Nothing is more beautiful than walking on campus and enjoying its many visual beauties. Dancing water fountains mesmerize you, still pond life makes you smile, and the buildings look fantastic. The student life is even better. You will find someone to get along with and you will make more friends than you need.

Am learning a lot

Never before have I been challenged mentally so much. In high school I was an all A student. High school was easy and I cruised through it. As soon as I started at WMU, it changed in a heartbeat. Courses are challenging and teachers push you to learn as much as possible. I am now finding myself studying after hours with helpful professors and a swarm of students in the same position as myself. I feel I have learned more in my first year of college than I ever have in the four years I spent in high school. WMU definitely offers educational courses and they will teach you something.

Dylan from Hazel Park, MI

07/08/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

34 of 201

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Great for these types of students

WMU is great for students who want a quality learning experience and a great social community. No one is going to enjoy themselves at any college if all the school has going for it is academics. You'll want to meet great people and have fun while earning your degree.

Tips for prospective students

I would recommend living on campus, not only do you get to be even more of a part of WMU's community but you have so much more access to things on campus. The longest walk on campus is 20 minutes from one end to the other, or you could even catch one of the buses that run throughout the campus. Living on campus will also give you more freedom and experience of living on your own, or rather, without your parents for once. You should join a sport or any extracurricular activities in general because you will meet new people who are interested in the same things as you and make more friends and connections to help you network out when you need to start up your career. The more involved you are the more you'll get in return.

Bang for the buck

The housing is a little pricey along with the tuition but thankfully your rates are locked at what you paid your freshman year. So your sophomore year and so on will be the same no matter how much they raise tuition and housing for the new freshman after you.

Am enjoying being here

I love it here so far. I love the community here than the other colleges I visited. Some were more snooty (uptight and not as accepting) whereas at WMU the majority of the people I've met are so welcoming and down to earth you just instantly learn to relax and have fun and enjoy your time at Western rather than freaking out about leaving home.

Am learning a lot

Being at WMU has taught me a lot about maintaining your academics and balancing it out with your social life as well. I didn't do so hot in my first semester because I still had the mind set of high where the homework wasn't so tough or demanding and critical for your exam grades. So I ended up spending more time with new friends than studying. When you come to college, it's no joke, they will test you on what they teach you and not be nearly as lenient. Also, seeing all these college students working so hard can even drive you to work hard as well.

Girl from Caledonia, MI

The one things that I would recommend are: be open to new experiences, join clubs on campus, and don't just stay in your dorm.

Bang for the buck

WMU is not the most expensive college, plus it will definitely prepare you for your life after college.

Am enjoying being here

The people at WMU are polite and will help you in any way possible. I am a transfer student and I can honestly say that my peers have helped me to adjust to campus living.

Am learning a lot

WMU is an excellent school when it comes to preparing for your career. The professors make it easy to learn the material and will try their best to accommodate those who don't. WMU is an the place to go if you want to grow in your future endeavors.

Tacy from Kalamazoo, MI

Be yourself; learn good habits of studying, so you can work smarter, not harder; if ever in doubt, go to office hours--the prof's love to see you, (and some of them give out candy!)

Bang for the buck

As far as prices go, for a university this big, in MI, it is an excellent buy, and you will not regret it as long as you try.

Am enjoying being here

All of the professors are super available, and flexible with office hours, and they try their own best to see you succeed. Though there is work involved in good grades, you still have plenty of time to be with friends and to explore all that Kalamazoo has to offer, as well as go to the games!

Am learning a lot

As a member of one of the oldest honors colleges in the nation, I see plenty of time hitting the books, yet I am able to socialize, sleep and get everything accomplished during the day. As of yet, I have never pulled an all-nighter, nor have I failed a class. WMU teaches you, through many different facets, how to work, how to succeed and how to excel. WMU welcomes all, into the doors of learning.

Chloe from Allegan, MI

In all honesty I do not understand what I am supposed to write in this box.

Tips for prospective students

Just make sure to fill out all that you need to on time. You can't procrastinate and think that you are just going to sail through. Get everything done that you need to get done.

Bang for the buck

I will admit that Western is a little expensive, but it is an amazing school. You certainly do get what you paid for.

Am enjoying being here

I would not choose any other school. Western has excellent classes, wonderful people, good places to hang out at, and awesome food. It just has the best of the best.

Am learning a lot

I have not even been at Western for a whole semester yet and I have already learned so much. I have learned how good people can be and how easy it is to make friends. My math skills have excelled so much. I have learned what I want to do with my life, which in my eyes is a lot.

Patricia from Kalamazoo, MI

01/08/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

40 of 201

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Comments

Campus Safety

Officers respond rather fast and we have a program called Drive Safe Kalamazoo (DSK) that can pick you up from anywhere in Kalamazoo and can bring you safely back to your dorm at night at no cost to you.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The Den is amazing! The soda is famous for being super cheap and anything can be found within the store that is surrounded by restaurants, cafe's, and movie rentals.

Bang for the buck

Affordable! But a job would be great for extra money and a way to meet new people beyond the classroom walls.

What to do for fun

The choices are endless, organizations are always holding events and even the library is a fun place to be when they sell smoothies hold some showcases. The art building is almost always showcasing student creations, the miller auditorium has wonderful plays, movies, or special guests! The athletes aren't left out because if you love sports, no way are you going to be bored at any of their games!

Food and Dining

Bistro 3 is my favorite dinning hall because of its variety of selections and fruits are always fresh! I can have a healthy salad at any time or a burger with fries and maybe pizza that is prepared before your eyes!

Dorm Life

I love the dorm life, as a current dormy at the little three i had nothing but fun and comfortable times, no loudness, stealing,or danger. I feel safe and friends are easily made here when events are held.

Academic Rigor

I love the focus on academics, my teachers have all been reasonable and no back to back exams that tend to affect instead of benefit.

Tips for prospective students

Stress level should be average. Manage time as best as you can. Make sure to check out the recreation center if you love working out like me! There are tutors or study sessions that can help you with any classes you have so no need to be confused throughout the semester.

In three sentences

Everything about this university is amazing! Not only is transportation free to go around all the city, but it's affordable, great learning environment, friendly, interactive, and great dorms. The distances between the buildings are perfect and so many events are happening all the time, organizations are more than enough to fit anyone that attends and it's overall a nice comfortable atmosphere to be in.

Alexander from Shelby Township, MI

There is a 911 box at nearly every other corner near the outskirts of campus. Very secure place.

Greek Life

I have become a brother here on campus and it has changed my life for the better.

Clubs and Activities

WMU has a wide range of activities from the football team all the way to squirrel club there will for sure be something for you.

Food and Dining

Great variety of good quality food.

Dorm Life

Very nice place to live. Meet so many great people with similar values and interests.

In three sentences

WMU has a very nice campus where everything is fairly close to each other, unlike big 10 universities with enormous campuses. The professors are very helpful and personable due to the small classes and the opportunity to get acquainted with one another. I would rate WMU a perfect ten out of ten.

Christopher from Sterling Heights, MI

the campus is very safe. they have their own police force, safety patrol at night, and a public safety force. also, the kalamazoo police are sometimes on campus.

Great for these types of students

students that like the small campus feel, but still want to go to a large university.

What to do for fun

there are many things to do. miller movies every month and many organizations to join. also, there are many intramural sports.

Tips for prospective students

apply and tour the campus. also, tour many other schools and pick the one that you feel most comfortable at.

In three sentences

western michigan university is an awesome school. it is a large four year university but it is still small enough to where you see the same people everyday and it is only a ten minute walk across campus. also, everyone you met are very nice.

Elizabeth from MI

03/13/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

don't step on the w

What to do for fun

there are so many clubs to join on campus, and there is always something going on in downtown kalamazoo or in portage. it's a great art community and once a month they have a city wide art show. there are always great plays and music to see and the parks and campus make for a great place to hang out with friends.

Food and Dining

bistro 3 is by far the best dining hall, but it's a bit of a walk if you're a first year and live in the valleys.

Tips for prospective students

don't be afraid to go out and try things and to meet new people. also explore different majors, i started out an art major and took an intro class in anthropology and now i'm an anthropology major.

In three sentences

it's been a great experience, i have met so many wonderful people here. the professors that i have had really want to see you do well, and so have all of my t.a.'s. it's a great community and there is always so much to do!

Crystal from Kalamazoo, MI

03/25/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

The safety on campus is really amazing. There are many people that walk around campus that help people get to their dorm safety. Also there this thing called Safe Ride which is a service offered on campus that drive student to there dorms when it get late. There are many different services that are offered to help keep student safe.

What to do for fun

There's always something to do on campus whether it be fraternity events or step shows. Also they have dance teams on campus that put on events. However, there's many people that comes to campus that need people to host different events such as talent shows and community service events.

Food and Dining

Its so nice to have many dining halls on campus because there's different food in each dining hall. This allow you to have a wide variety of choices. Also you and friends can eat at any cafe during the times there open. They try to cook many different types of food that people from different cultures would enjoy. They even have carry-out which comes in handle when your studying late for an exam and you get hungry.

Dorm Life

Living in the dorms is the best way to meet new people from all over the world. From my personal experience i really enjoyed living in the dorms because i had the opportunity to hang in study lobbies with my friends to review for exams. Also i met many people from different cultures. However, the hall director and assistants put on many events that help the student to get involved with each other and to learn new things.

Academic Rigor

I feel that the education system at Western Michigan University prepares you for the work field. The professor really push the student to achieve and apply themselves during and outside class. I believe that the student at Western are prepared for what life has in store for them after graduate.

Tips for prospective students

For incoming college studenet its very inportanat to balance your time between social life and your education. Studying is really the main thing when coming to college. College can be fun but you have to remember what your there for. There are times when you will miss out on sleeping or hanging with friends but when you accomplish your degree it will be all worth it. I wish everyone the best in furthering their education.

In three sentences

Western Michigan University is really a amazing school that try to help children coming out of foster care to adjust to the transition into college. Western Is a very friendly environment were everyone is welcome. I love how Western try their best to make every culture feel welcome into different environment and cultures.

Jared from Lansing, MI

There are emergency call boxes all over campus and there are also campus watch volunteers who roam the campus at night to make sure everything is okay. It's very peaceful here.

Greek Life

Plenty of Fraternities and Sororities.

Clubs and Activities

Intramural sports are a blast and there is an entire office dedicated to creating clubs and activities on campus.

Great for these types of students

Great for students that want to experience the big university feel but also want a school that's not too big.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

One of the biggest traditions is when walking to the library there is a big W in the ground. Don't step on it because if you do you will fail all your classes!!

Bang for the buck

Western is an amazing university and also happens to be one of the cheapest in Michigan.

What to do for fun

My favorite thing to do for fun is getting involved in intramural sports like football and softball.

Food and Dining

Depends on what dining hall you go to. Bistro 3 is the best but all the others dining halls are pretty nice.

Dorm Life

I lived in the dorms for two years and just about every single person I am friends with now were people I met in the dorms.

Academic Rigor

I'm an engineering student so it is not easy.

Tips for prospective students

If I had to pass along one tip to prospective students it would be to make sure they get involved in on campus activities as it is a great way to meet new people and learn the campus.

In three sentences

Beautiful campus with a lot of wild life and more variety of trees than any other campus in the world. Big university feel but anywhere on campus is only about a 10 minute walk. Classes are reasonable sized and you can get individual help from professors.

Rachel from Kalamazoo, MI

There are multiple stations where someone can find emergency phones around the campus.

Greek Life

We do have some sororities and fraternities, but they live off-campus.

Clubs and Activities

There is a ton of different types of clubs and activities (that are listed online).

Great for these types of students

Anyone who is ready to have the entire college experience.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

We have some historical parts of campus that are pretty awesome to walk around and tour.

Bang for the buck

I feel that you get a lot out of the money that you pay for your education.

What to do for fun

There are tons of free shows and art exhibits to see. As well as discounts for musicals and comedian shows.

Food and Dining

There are lots of options for food all over the campus.

Dorm Life

I have not personally lived in the dorms, but I have heard mixed reviews.

Academic Rigor

There is a wide range of difficulty in classes.

Tips for prospective students

Do not be afraid to ask questions or to seek help.

In three sentences

A great place to figure out where you want to go with your degree. They have excellent programs to help you. Majority of the staff have had specific training or experience in the field that they are teaching.

Use every dime of your continuing education to your benefit. Utilize any extra sources of help that you're paying for, and maintain open communication with classmates and professors at all times!

In three sentences

WMU grad programs provide practical, applicable knowledge. The professors take an active interest in their students' success, and are understanding of real-world, day-to-day schedules; flexibility is evident in scheduling due dates. Professors are also approachable.

Abby from Kalamazoo, MI

There are rocks in the center of campus that the sorority and fraternities paint!

What to do for fun

Bernhard Center has food, ice cream, computer lab, stores and a cafeteria. Just on the outside of campus there are video stores, subs shops, hair salons, shopping centers, bars... random things. There is a pretty big mall about 10 minutes from camp[us, that the city metro (which is free for students) will take you to.

Food and Dining

Typical cafeteria food. The is late night food that is amazing!

Dorm Life

I lived in the dorms for my freshman year, and I truly regret moving out. I was so close to all my friends, just having to go next door. The RA's were great, always giving us things to do.

Academic Rigor

I was a psych major and ended up changing because everything I was learning, I had already learned in high school. I am now a Speech Pathology major, and I am learning new things everyday and I am being challenged.

Tips for prospective students

Do not talk to the financial aid office, if you do not need too.

In three sentences

The teachers take their time to get to know you and your skills, as long as you let them. The campus is beautiful. There are many things to do on campus so you will not be bored.

Marc from Kalamazoo, MI

04/05/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

As far as I have seen or heard there has been little safety issues on Western Michigan University's campus. There are alarms you can press throughout campus in case of emergency. Campus safety must be able to reach all these points in under a minute.

Clubs and Activities

Go WMU's Swim and Water Polo teams!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Any student must visit the Shwarma House on campus. It is great Mediterranean food at an even greater price.

What to do for fun

WMU supplies students with many great athletic organizations to join. You can also get involved in many student run organizations.

Food and Dining

Remember high school? It's that kind of food but with more more options.

Dorm Life

My only suggestion is to get an apartment ASAP. You can save on money by renting compared to dorm living expenses as well as save money and live healthier by cooking your own food instead of reheated packaged food from the cafeteria.

Academic Rigor

It is not a strict environment at WMU. Most professors do not take attendance and under reasonable circumstances late work is accepted.

Tips for prospective students

Take a broad array of classes and subjects when you first get here. You never know what you may enjoy and in turn pursue. For your social health join student clubs and organizations.

In three sentences

Western Michigan University is a great place to be. The professors I have had in the last two years have been extremely helpful and easy to get in contact with. The only real problem I have is it is a terribly ugly campus but new renovations are taking place.

Breanna from Kalamazoo, MI

Student officers as well as WMU police patrol the campus. There are phones throughout the campus that directly connect to police.

Greek Life

Not a fan.

Clubs and Activities

Not as many as I would like but everyone can find something.

Great for these types of students

Work hard, play hard. Only way to do it here.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Don't step on the W outside the library or you will fail your classes.

Bang for the buck

Meal plan and dorms aren't worth it. Neither are general education classes. Better off getting some in at a community college and transfer the credits over. You can save money by not driving either, as busses are free for WMU students and they go everywhere in Portage and Kalamazoo as well as all over campus. Drive safe Kalamazoo will take you home for free on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights from 11pm to 3 am.

What to do for fun

Pool, gym, party, movie theatres, hangout in student neighborhoods, Really easy to find something to do downtown, on campus or right off campus.

Food and Dining

Lots and lots of options as far as food in the meal plan. Dining halls are attached to residence halls and vary in cuisine. Late night carryout is helpful. Plenty of restaurants that deliver.

Dorm Life

RA's are the only real downer. Dorm life is a good experience for a about a year, then move on. Not worth the continued expense of having to have a meal plan and quiet hours.

Academic Rigor

Depends on the major and course load. Professors are flexible if you demonstrate a legitimate need for help.

Tips for prospective students

Do some research on your professors before signing up for a class. Try to organize your course load so that you take your general education courses first. Maybe take a few of those at the local community college to save money.

In three sentences

Fun and safe place to spend 4 years in a university. Town is built for college students, and has lots of opportunities for after graduation. Has a party school reputation, but its is up to the student to seek it out.

Aryssa from New Hudson, MI

05/03/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

There is so much to do for fun on and off campus! In the winter there is the ice arena where students can go ice skating. There are Miller movies in the schools theater, international fairs, Bronco Bash which is full of free things. There is the rec that not only has work-out equipment, but an indoor track, swimming pool, hot tub, and sauna, rock wall, basketball/volleyball courts and soccer nets. Not to mention the different yoga, zumba, kick-boxing, and cycling classes.

Food and Dining

What I love the most about the food and dining here is that there are always healthy options, and if you don't like the food at one cafeteria, there are always several other cafeterias to go to. The buffet style is especially great because it allows the students to make the choice.

Dorm Life

I've met some really great people in the dorms. I've made new best friends that I plan on keeping with me for life. Resident Assistants are always fun because they are there to help create an exciting environment and the dorms are always involved with some sort of activity.

Academic Rigor

The classes can be challenging, but the best part is that there are so many classes to choose from that you could easily pick one that is relevant to your degree and interest. Therefore even if the class is difficult, you could always look at it as a challenge to succeed, and meeting that challenge is an amazing feeling.

Tips for prospective students

I definitely recommend students consider Western Michigan University. If I were to give any tips I would say that it is important to go to class, and be proactive. Take notes, sit towards the front, and pay attention. Study groups are also a must! You can have fun and get your work done, I've lived it. Just balance your time, and use it wisely.

In three sentences

I love this University and cannot picture myself anywhere else. The staff is understanding, the classes are interesting, and campus life is amazing! There is so much to do here that even when I'm not doing anything I feel busy!

Jasmine from Kalamazoo, MI

05/06/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

There are police call boxes located in well-populated areas as well as secluded areas to give peace of mind, as well as campus police and safety vehicles doing routine rounds around campus. There is also a Safe Ride services that students anywhere at any location on campus can call to give them a ride to any location on campus. This service is available til about 4 am so no one has to worry about any late night walk alone or in any bad weather!

Greek Life

Greek Life at Western is diverse and exciting! There is a place called Frat Village where all of the Fraternities and Sororities call their home. A few of the Sororities we boast are: Alpha Kappa Alpha, Delta Zeta, Sigma Kappa and Alpha Phi. A few of the Fraternities we boast are: Alpha Phi Alpha, Pi Kappa Alpha, Sigma Phi Epsilon and Pi Kappa Phi. Get involved and learn something new!

Clubs and Activities

There are many different sports clubs, social clubs and activities to once again discover and get involved with. Again, I would suggest discovering the RSOs and getting involved with a Registered Student Organization to help get you started with your social endeavors on campus and student life!

Great for these types of students

If you like squirrels you should check out the Squirrel Club! Yes, we have a Squirrel Club! If you are in marching band or are thinking about continuing your marching career, Bronco Marching Band might be the thing for you! It is an excellent group of students, most of whom aren't music majors and are there because they enjoy it! Try it! You might like it! If you are loyal to your school's mascot and sports teams then go to games and be in the student section! Students are great sources of support to their teams and loads of fun at games and events!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There is a popular party store located just off of Howard Street on campus in the Campus Corner strip called The Den, home of the popular Den Pop which can be a mixture of any fountain drinks you want that comes in a 32 oz styrofoam cup for 65 cents or a 44 oz styrofoam cup for 80 cents. They're loved by everyone who tries one and are definitely a favorite among students. Another really big location on campus that comes accompanied with a crazy superstitious tradition is The W. The W is an embedded brown and gold 'W' located just outside of the Waldo Library and is said to bring anyone who steps on it purposely or not, a bout of serious bad luck. The only advice I have for anyone with this, is to simply walk around it. I've heard stories and I'm not about to take any chances! A sign of good luck however, is a gigantic statue of a whale lounging in the grass located just next to the bus loading zone in front of the science building. It's said that if you rub the whale just before a test or big exam it'll bring you good luck and good grades!

Bang for the buck

You do get your money's worth when most things are concerned, however, the things that could be improved upon would be parking passes. It's less for students to pay who live on campus than for those who commute to campus every day via their own vehicle, but you have to keep in mind not by much. For all of the tuition you have to pay, maybe minus the cost of living on campus but having to pay for gas and depending on how far you drive to get to and from campus can become costly. It's just something to keep in mind, but other than that additional costs and fees are part of the college experience, however, Western tries to help keep these costs as low as they possibly can.

What to do for fun

There are different activities that Western hosts like Bronco Bash which goes on towards the beginning of the year in the Rec. Center where there would be different vendors, games and chances to win prizes. There are other big fun events that different student organizations put on like MODA (Merchandising Oportunites Design Association), which puts on a fashion show both in the fall and spring semesters. There is the Rec. Center where any student at Western can get in for free and use any of the excercising equipment and any of the basketball courts which can be converted to volleyball courts, and the tennis courts as well. The Rec. also boasts a pool and a hot tub so anyone who likes to swim whether it be recreational or for excercise/training purposes is welcome. It's also fun to hop on the bus if you don't have your own method of transportation and travel out to the next city over of Portage to go to the mall for a few hours of shopping and hanging out after a long week of studying and tests. Downtown Kalamazoo also boasts a rich mix of culture that can be fun to explore and discover so there are endless things to find out and enjoy in Kalamazoo and on campus!

Food and Dining

Most of the dorms on campus have dining halls although there are a few that don't. There are meal plans available for students living both on and off campus and they are definitely something to take advantage of because all you have to do is swipe your Bronco ID and you're welcome to whatever dining hall you choose no matter where you live. The food is okay in most dining halls although its best in Bistro and Bigelow. There are many different places around Kalamazoo that deliver to campus as well, so students also have the option of ordering out or going somewhere to eat just to have something different or that occasional timeless favorite of pizza.

Dorm Life

I rate dorm life at this level because dorms at Western are set up so that they're like their own little communities which is a plus! However, some of the dorms like the ever-popular Vallies are the furthest away from Main Campus which is where a lot of the hustle and bustle of both Kalamazoo and Western goes on. They're a great place to live, its just that they're not conveniently placed by the important places...but there are buses so it isn't that bad! The rooms are nicely sized for any living situation you choose, having a roommate is fun and I recommend having one your first year just to get the full experience, but I also understand if you don't like to share personal space so close to someone else. All around, the dorms are a great place to live and experience something new and meet new people!

Academic Rigor

Western is a large university, but not so huge that when you sit down in a class you are just another number. This makes learning a much more down-to-earth experience, however, it doesn't mean that everything is going to be easy. In terms of academics, the level of difficulty depends on the professor or instructor and then how the student goes about being involved with learning the material. You still get a quality top-notch education and experience with help from the professor as well as tutors who are there to help YOU succeed and flourish academically.

Tips for prospective students

Anyone looking forward to coming to Western should know first that just like Michigan, (where the weather is unpredictable and doesn't always go with the season), come prepared for anything because there are so many different things to experience. You should take advantage of the transportation provided by Western and the city, (of Kalamazoo), students ride free on both services. You should also check out the RSOs which stands for Registered Student Organizations, there are over 50 registered RSOs on campus. Probably the most important thing any prospective student should know is that there are academic and career services set up to help benefit YOU the student, so those two things should be taken advantage of DEFINITELY. Some general tips are: take time to get to know the campus, get to know your professors, get involved with an RSO that may have something to do with your major, volunteer, get a job working on campus, use the library and Bernhard Center (general multi-media center), get to know dorm mates and other students!

In three sentences

Western is a great place to get a well-rounded first-year experience in college. There is a diverse group of people on campus as well as off campus, where you will be immersed in many different cultures as well. This university is one that is geared towards helping its students succeed on a personal level, even though it is a twenty-thousand plus university.

Malik Blishtar

05/07/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

This may be WMU's most sell-able feature. There is a safety escort service that will take you home when it gets dark, Drive Safe Kalamazoo that offers free & nonjudgmental rides home from anywhere in Kalamazoo, and since so many students live off-campus, not much partying happens on campus, keeping campus safer.

Great for these types of students

Extroverts, outgoing, open, laid back.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Don't step on the W outside of the library! Also, go to Bronco Bash. It will connect you to RSOs.

What to do for fun

It is very hard to get involved if you don't have a car, or if you have classes after 4pm, both of which applied to me. Kalamazoo is a community full of fun entertainment, but without transportation, it is very hard to access. On campus, you need to connect to RSOs to get involved on a regular basis.

Food and Dining

I had a Bronco Gold meal plan, and I found it to be convenient. The cafeterias make an effort to keep a portion of their food consistent, and to change other parts, ensuring that there is always something you like. Different cafeterias sere different styles of food, which works as a positive and a negative. If you want to eat healthy, like me, there are some dining halls you just have to avoid. My only other complaint would be for mass-produced food in general; if you're sensitive to grease, you need to wipe some off before eating a lot of the food. Don't worry; they provide napkins.

Dorm Life

Dorm life, for me, was very poor. Granted, I was at band camp while people on my floor got to know each other. I felt very distant from, and sometimes afraid of, the people living around me. Many of my friends talked of smelling pot on their floors, and though the RA tried, quiet hours were not effectively enforced. As a warning to college kids in general: yes, people do sleep around, especially in dormitories. Overall, it was not the best of experiences, and nothing special.

Academic Rigor

This depends on your major. Since I'm a music major in the honors college, taking about nine classes a semester, it's pretty rigorous for me. My roommate, a film and media studies major who had maybe four or five classes a week, routinely got bored and was not challenged by her classes. The academic rigor depends on the program the student is in, and how intently they wish to study for their classes. It is possible to brainlessly do busywork and do reasonably well, and it is also possible to get in-depth with classes and do very well. It's really up to the student.

Tips for prospective students

WMU is a very big school with a very, VERY present party culture. If you are shy or opposed to alcohol, I would avoid WMU. It is also very easy to get lost in the sea of numbers and 25,000-ish that is WMU. Talk to your professors to prevent this happening. Get involved, and do it early. This will get you around people similar to you, and find you friends, so you don't feel like an insignificant waste of life like I did.

In three sentences

WMU is a big school, and depending on your program, your academic challenges and lifestyle will vary greatly. There is a very strong and thriving party culture. It is very hard to get noticed, and easy to get lost in the sea of 25000 students.

Benjamin from Galesburg, MI

Things get stolen and the police listen but can't do much. There are phones everywhere to be able to contact campus police when necessary

Clubs and Activities

Band!!! Movie nights!

Great for these types of students

Everyone!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Can't think of any

Bang for the buck

There is so much diversity in majors and extra curricular activities that there is absolutely something for everyone

What to do for fun

Kalamazoo is a wonderful city full of every possible kind of entertainment......if you even leave campus. There are so many things to do on campus...work out, go to movies, student activities, work, band, theatre

Food and Dining

Belgian Waffles and juice every morning. Sack lunches packed for me when I don't have time to eat at the dorm.

Dorm Life

Wonderful to wake up and only be 10 minutes to class. No driving. Mandatory room inspections. Dorms grouped by major.

Academic Rigor

Challenging yet thorough classes

Tips for prospective students

Go on the campus tours that are offered and take their Freshman Year Experience Class (FYE) to learn more about campus and being a Freshman

In three sentences

Great student services, Medical school coming soon, Rec center to workout and de-stress

Tessa from Marcellus, MI

I have been academically challenged at WMU and have learned an incredible amount of valuable information that is applicable to both my career and to my life.

Tips for prospective students

If you plan on studying abroad, which I HIGHLY recommend, do not be discouraged by the road blocks you may hit with the department at WMU. I studied in England for an entire semester, and it was the best experience of my life. So don't be discouraged and keep pushing to get yourself to another country to study!

In three sentences

Western has an absolutely beautiful campus. Each professor I have had during my time here has made a significant effort to help me understand material in my classes and to see that I am successful. I have had some of my greatest teachers, here at WMU.

Jasmine from Oak Park, MI

05/14/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

There are vehicles starting at 9:00 that you can call to pick you up where ever you may be on campus and take you to the location you desire around the campus for your safety. Also there are 911 stands everywhere so that if you get in trouble you can always push the button and get help where ever you may need it.

Greek Life

Greek Life is great the ethnic fraternities and sororities do a lot on campus and so do the white fraternities and sororities. There are a lot of them and they are welcome to all who wants to join. Many of them do great community service and throw awesome parties.

Clubs and Activities

There are a lot of clubs and activities for every single person at WMU its just a matter of you getting up and joining in on the fun.

Great for these types of students

If you are friendly, love diverse places and learning about different cultures, and if you are interested in a more family town than WMU is the place to be and its great for business majors and arts or theater majors.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Anytime you see a Bronco says Hey Bronco show me your nuts! although it sounds vulgar it really means show me your crazy and you just get excited or say Whoooo.

Bang for the buck

There are so many opportunities here that your money covers you get free gym service and classes. Free city bus fare by showing your Bronco ID badge. You also get bronco bucks and free lab time also and safe ride at night when you out late on the campus alone.

What to do for fun

There are a lot of things to do for fun like going to the movies, to the mall, out to eat, out to drink, or maybe a local party. There are clubs all over campus that can accommodate each particular persons beliefs or interests.

Food and Dining

The food is on and off good I wish that the cooks would put love into the meal instead of throwing something together.

Dorm Life

I wish that the valleys were renovated and had bigger rooms and bathrooms. But the people who live in the dorms are great except the occasional closed minded person.

Tips for prospective students

Always go to class never miss it unless you are dieing and about to go to the hospital. This is one of the big tips to getting at least a C in your classes.

In three sentences

WMU is a great diverse school that is in a small homey town with such a welcoming atmosphere. Life at WMU is not fast paced but average and is really good for the average college student. The teachers are well educated and make every learning experience worth while.

Rachel from Allendale, MI

This school is great for students who want to experience college by meeting a diverse community and want to appreciate the school as a whole.

What to do for fun

There are many clubs and sports that are fun and the campus is built for students to have the ability to do anything they want physically. They have tennis courts, basketball courts, hokey rank, and much more.

Tips for prospective students

Coming from a student who has been to many colleges, it is important o recognize the types of classes at a university. Western Michigan University has small class sizes that allow students to get the attention they require to understand the course thoroughly.

In three sentences

Western Michigan is a very diverse school that has many different programs that fill the needs of thousands of students every year. The professors encourage their students and teach with passion. On top of that, the campus is well taken care of and everyone here is friendly.

Chris from Houghton Lake, MI

05/15/2012

Reviewer is Researching this school.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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In three sentences

In three sentences I would say Western Michigan is a great school. The have a beautiful campus that I love seeing everyday. Also Western has been part of my family since my parents both went to Western.

Shannon from Kalamazoo, MI

05/17/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

66 of 201

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Comments

Campus Safety

The cops are around, but they are never there when you really need them. In the 5 years I have been here, there are been people attacked at night (so beware, especially if you are a girl, there are lots of weird people who drive around the campus at night. I almost got picked up once and had to ran from that area, literally!) Also, there are gangs in the North side of Kalamazoo, and at times, there are gang members who come to campus looking for people to beat up. In my sophomore year here, there was a guy who lived down the Valley Dorms, and he got caught up and beaten. He was in critical condition for weeks! Be very careful! Also, WMU needs to install more of those blue-light Emergency telephones!

Greek Life

I don't care for this part of school. They party way too much and they are very ignorant, a lot of them.

Clubs and Activities

There are plenty of clubs to join--there's a place for anyone! Even Zombie wars!

Great for these types of students

Everyone--I think anyone can make it work. I have a daughter and a husband and we both go to school. Even non-traditional students are really welcomed!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The W under the clock tower, it's rumored to be back luck if you walk on the letter W! Beware! I'm kind of superstitious so I've NEVER walked on it!

Bang for the buck

I do like living here, but Kalamazoo is too big for me (hehehe) I was from a small little town and Ill tell you, the adjustment to moving here was really hard. Especially making new friends and trying to learn to navigate around a large city!

What to do for fun

There are intra-mural sports in the REC all the time. I loved playing on a volleyball team, and of course just for fun. The REC is a great place to meet up with friends and workout together! Also, downtown Kalamazoo has lots of cool places: Museums and nice places to dine at.

Food and Dining

The cafeterias are ok, but I think they are expensive to eat at. Part of why I moved into an apartment was because when you live in the DORMS here, you are absolutely required to have a meal plan. The cheapest meal plan during the regular school year is like $1800! I learned to only buy dining dollars which is like a cash on your student id, and I was able to get away with only having to buy like $400 per semester! It's a lot cheaper than the meal plans, that's for sure!

Dorm Life

It's fun, if you are into that kind of thing, which I wasn't. I moved out into an apartment as soon as I could because I just wasn't into the late-night people walking in all hours of the night and causing mischief. Plus, I loved my own space. It was EXTREMELY difficult to get along with 2 of my roommates!

Academic Rigor

I heard that the Engineering program is a real hard program, I have a lot of friends who pull all-nighters to complete their projects! I'm in English, and these professors are hard graders!!

Tips for prospective students

Don't take all of your general education classes in the beginning; the advisors don't tell you this, but you will need fillers to fill up your schedule when you get into your upperlevel undergraduate courses, and sometimes it's a struggle to even sign up for full-time class loads. Sometimes you will have to pay for crap classes because you already did all your gen eds!

In three sentences

It has a beautiful campus. The professors generally don't teach the classes, their TA's do. Financial Aid is crap, make sure to turn your paperwork in on time!

Roxanne from Madison Heights, MI

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Everyone loves the smoothies at Parkview.

What to do for fun

There are a lot of things to do for fun around WMU. There are dozens of cool places to eat with lots of variety for those who are vegetarians/vegans. There are a lot of fun things going all around campus, even parties!

Tips for prospective students

Be on top of everything, scholarships, transcripts, job opportunities. You never know what you will miss!

In three sentences

WMU is a very friendly environment, every time I have visited there, I have felt nothing but welcomed by the students and staff. The university has a great staff that is willing to help you and take you through the steps needed to further your education. I'm glad that I have chosen WMU as my college to graduate from. GO BRONCOS!

Sally from Portage, MI

05/30/2012

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Campus Safety

Fairly safe campus, and always improving. On-campus police force, security cameras, security phones generally within sight of each other. Well lit for the main campus; I don't recommend going off in the wooded areas at night if worried.

Greek Life

There is a bookworm fraternity. They have a private library in their frat house. Unfortunately, they don't loan out books.

Clubs and Activities

It is easy to start a club, it is easy to join a club. There's a club for the squirrels and chipmunks on campus even. Finding information about the clubs is fairly easy, just go to Student Organizations. They will tell you who to contact. Mind you, catching hold of some of the esoteric club owners/founders is interesting.

The library was in the Guiness Book of World Records for the most bathroom tiles on the outside of a building. Sangren Hall has the ashes of Mr. Sangren in the cornerstone. On Wednesdays at the theater on campus there are shows available to students for $1 and popcorn only costs another $1.

Bang for the buck

Solid instruction, just make sure you connect with the teachers. Getting an appointment half way through the semester is too late. Be careful about the parking sticker -- it says you can park on campus not whether you will have a spot to park! Creativity in finding parking is a requirement if you don't want to walk a few blocks. However, bus service is free with identification; so if you don't mind not having immediate access to car it can save you a bundle.

What to do for fun

There's plenty to do, just be able to drive. It isn't far away generally, but can take several hours to travel if doing it by bus. Downtown Kalamazoo does have nightclubs and hotspots, it's best if you ask around to find the ones which aren't packed though.

Food and Dining

Food is good, filling, and nourishing. If you have some odd diet, you won't want the meal plan. On the other hand there is the option to try new foods, if you want to. If you are vegan, I recommend planning on bringing your own breakfast, oatmeal gets boring really fast.

Dorm Life

I lived at home, from friends dorm life isn't bad; not great if you don't like crowds.

Academic Rigor

The classes are meant to challenge, but not overwhelm. Just pay attention to the prerequisites.

Tips for prospective students

Don't wear heels to campus, it's pretty rolling hills. It will kill your feet if you have more than a quarter mile to walk; and walk you will. Make sure you know about the benefits of being a student; $1 movie night and free bus service being only two of them.

In three sentences

A clean, beautiful campus near downtown Kalamazoo nightlife where a student can get a small town university friendliness and a big city education. Good variety in their curriculum, both in subjects and availability of alternative methods of learning.

Autumn from Three Oaks, MI

06/02/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

There are emergency telephones along your walks to and from class. Kalamazoo Police are not far from campus. I personally have never felt the need to use any of these while on campus, I've always felt safe there.

Great for these types of students

Students who are physically active will love the Western campus. The rec center has more than enough equipment for students interested in getting a good workout! There are fitness rooms in many of the residence halls as well.

What to do for fun

In the residence halls there are many student activities throughout the week. The rec center offers many fun activities including Zumba classes! The Bernhard Center holds many special events which include guest speakers and campus group activities.

Food and Dining

The cafeterias are very conveniently located, being evenly distributed throughout the campus. There is a large selection for vegetarians, however I would like to see more vegan selections. The fresh fruit and vegetable selections are delicious!

Dorm Life

Dorm life offers activities to meet other students in your residence hall. Most of the dorms have a cafeteria or are within walking distance of a cafeteria. All the dorms have Wi-Fi available so you can use it when you are doing research for class from your own dorm.

Academic Rigor

There are many creative projects assigned. I haven't found the homework load to be too heavy. There are however, many projects and studying for exams has been somewhat challenging.

Tips for prospective students

Take advantage of the libraries because doing your homework or studying in the library is a lot easier than trying to do it in your dorm or the cafeteria. If you start feeling overwhelmed or stressed, take a little time for yourself and go to the rec center. Stay on track with all your assignments.

In three sentences

Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Michigan is a beautiful campus with many great class buildings, cafeterias, libraries, and an amazing rec center! Western gives students many opportunities to do volunteer work, and helps assist students in finding internships for the various programs they offer. I have found attending Western Michigan University to be more than just a college, it's a life-changing experience!

Robert from Grosse Pointe, MI

06/12/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Greek Life

Theres a house for everyone! Its a small community so everyone knows everyone. Doesn't matter what house you are in, we all get along. Greatest decision I made! You have opportunities beyond college as well.

Food and Dining

Improving the food every year. Updating the cafes.

Dorm Life

Great experience!

Tips for prospective students

Go visit the campus, see the beauty of it. Talk to current students. Research the programs!

In three sentences

Western Michigan University is an accepting campus. Theres so many opportunities to get involved in one of the many RSOs. The faculty are professional, knowledgable and want you to succeed.

Elizabeth from Grayslake, IL

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Campus Safety

Drive safe Kalamazoo is a great safe program! Police call boxes are everywhere. There are also police on campus at all times.

Greek Life

I don't have experience with Greek Life.

Clubs and Activities

There are soooo many to choose from! Well over 300 clubs, and if you cannot find something you like, you can make your own club!

Great for these types of students

Theatre people will love it here! Social people will enjoy it. Also people who are looking for a large and welcoming environment.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The WMU fight song and actions are a big deal, everyone knows it! Also, WMU is big on school spirit, so get excited!

Bang for the buck

I got a good scholarship, but the price of WMU is constantly rising. I am also out of state and the out of state price is very high.

What to do for fun

There are lots of sports and clubs to join! The theatre program is great! Every group at WMU will welcome you with open arms!

Food and Dining

Food is great! There are lots of options and its great for vegetarians.

Dorm Life

The dorms seems great! A lot of housing options to choose from and a great set-up!

Academic Rigor

I have a full schedule of challenging classes and I can't wait to begin my classes in the Fall!

Tips for prospective students

Visit the campus! Its so much better in person! Don't let the snow scare you...its worth trekking through the snow for a first class education! Keep an open mind; Western was not my 1st choice initially, but I truly love it now.

In three sentences

Western Michigan has a very inviting student body, everyone is so willing to help. The campus is a great size and it seems there is always something happening on campus. The faculty are so helpful, they really want you to succeed!

Kay

06/16/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Western has a very safe campus. If someone is leaving the library or a different building late at night, all they have to do is call safe ride. Safe ride will drive people from one point on campus to another point on campus for free.

What to do for fun

There are many fun things to do on campus. Just from walking to classes, there are fliers and sidewalk chalk that advertise dances, clubs, and other fun activities. A fun way to stay in shape would be to take classes at the rec center. Some classes include Zumba, CycleFit and many more.

Food and Dining

There are many food varieties in the dining halls at Western. Depending on the dining hall, many different types of foods are served. Some types include stir fry, Mexican, Chinese, Italian and many more. There is also a large variety of breakfast foods and late night carry out foods.

Dorm Life

Dorm life definitely has some positives and negatives. One positive of dorm life is that there are many opportunities to meet new people. Every dorm has special activities to help people interact with others. One negative of dorm life is sometimes the hall can get very noisy. Sometimes, people play loud music and yell with their friends. This may become a little disturbing to some people.

Academic Rigor

The teachers and professors at Western are very good at teaching. The teachers and professors that I have previously had are good at teaching the material and they also present a welcoming environment during their office hours.

Tips for prospective students

One important tip that prospective students should know is although you have more freedom in college, make sure you remember why you went to college in the first place. People go to college to receive a higher education, not to party. There are times to have fun and there are times to study. Another tip would be to get involved in clubs or activities. That is a great way to make life long friends and future connections for job opportunities.

In three sentences

Western is a really nice university. The employees and teachers are friendly and seem to enjoy their job. The campus is not too small or large and it has activities for all kinds of people.

Wade from West Bloomfield, MI

06/20/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Campus is the safest place to be! That does not mean be careless about your safety. Watch groups patrol and campus security patrols through the night. There are phones to call the police around campus, you can't miss them because of the bright blue light they have. Also, the police station is about 10 minutes away from campus, so there is a pretty fast response time.

Clubs and Activities

The intramural sports are fun. They are competitive, but not too competitive to the point you are having fun. The coordinators allow you to pick a time you want to play making it more convenient around your class schedule. There are also multiple leagues. This is convenient to play people your own skill level.

Great for these types of students

WMU is known for its phenomenal aviation program. If you are into planes and what not this is the for sure school for you!

Bang for the buck

Western Michigan University is a great school, but I feel some of the buildings need an upgrade. I've been to some of the surrounding universities, and most of their buildings are up to date. he engineering campus, where I am most of the time. is one of the newest buildings, and has a lot of modern technology in it.

What to do for fun

There are a lot of on campus things people can become involved in, I was an athlete, so I am involved in the athletic groups on campus. I try to do all the intramural sports! Western Michigan University has its own movie theater. Movies are shown frequently, and only cost $1.

Food and Dining

The cafeteria food is pretty much like high school food. They will cook some things that are pretty nice though. Holiday the food is always good and has a theme. The newest cafeteria in Davis Hall is the best though.

Dorm Life

The dorms are pretty standard. It depends what hall you live in that will change the bathroom type and the people you are around. In my dorm the bathrooms were cleaned everyday and generally the people I lived around were friendly. When it gets hot you must have a fan!

Academic Rigor

I chose electrical engineering as my major. A lot of the engineering majors are hard, especially mine, as long as you meet people in class and talk tot the professors it really isn't that bad.

Tips for prospective students

Get to know as many people as possible. Knowing people from different majors and backgrounds is really interesting. Once you start meeting people you began to realize that they know pretty much the same people you know as well.

In three sentences

Western Michigan University is home of the Broncos. The school is a decent size, but small at the same time. You will meet people in the first week who will become life long friends.

Nyesha from Midlothian, IL

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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What to do for fun

There`re plenty of things to do at WMU. Join a lot of clubs and activities.

Food and Dining

A Lot of dining halls.

Dorm Life

Try to live in Valley 1 for the first year, it`s closer to the main campus.

Tips for prospective students

Fill out ALOT of scholarships especially if you`re out of state resident. Also try to make friends through social media (Twitter, Facebook) before you attend.

In three sentences

WMU came to my attention when I went on a campus visit last year. The beautiful campus and the friendly environment were stuck in my head. This led me to come back on another occasion to spend a weekend. The experience of spending two days a Western made me fall in love with the school because I feel like I belong there. Also the main reason why I want to be a student at Western Michigan is because of the amazing nursing program.

Marleigh from Dimondale, MI

06/26/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

I have never had a problem on campus, and I know NO ONE that has! I always see student and campus security when I leave the library late at night, even in the parking ramp. I couldn't rant enough on how amazingly safe I feel on WMU campus!

Greek Life

I am not a part of any Greek Life, but my boyfriend is an avid Phi Mu Alpha Fraternity member. That is the men's music fraternity on campus. I am friends with so many members of Greek Life and they absolutely love it. From what I have heard, WMU is a great place to be a GREEK!

Clubs and Activities

As I said I am part of the BMB, that is one activity that is HUGE on campus. There are so many options such as fraternities, sororities, political, religious, LGTB club, honor, video games, animals... etc, literally almost anything you can think of! We even have a WMU squirrel club!

Great for these types of students

If students enjoy fun as well as great academics this is the school for you. Our campus is full of aesthetic beauty with art all over, array of students, and just the land around us. It is always a great day to be a BRONCO!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The unusual traditions at are school are abundant. A few include a kick and touch your toe at the end of singing every fight song! Another is the opening day of every students favorite...the MILLER FOUNTAIN! I always enjoy the zombies vs. humans tournament time during the fall at night on campus, as it always causes a ruckus with campus police!

Bang for the buck

With all of the opportunities for fun and study habits on campus there is no doubt that WMU is a bang for your buck. My only downfall here is the tuition increase recently for renovations... YUCK!

What to do for fun

I can always join into our BIG WINNING hockey team as a LAWSON LUNATIC!!! All sports events are fun and entertaining at WMU as well as free skate times at Lawson Ice Arena. There are Recreational groups all over campus that any students can join. The Zumba classes this year were FULL... almost 100 people in each class!

Food and Dining

ALL of the WMU dorms have some sort of dining hall. Each dorm offers different types of food and healthy choices for those who prefer! I absolutely loved the late night dining on center campus for those late night study sessions as well as the to-go dining at my own dorm!!! Favorite dining experience is THANKSGIVING! The President comes to eat with all of the students as our own friends entertain us with music throughout dinner!

Dorm Life

I first lived in the Valley Dorms which are mostly where the freshman are put. I was moved into the Music Dorm (Siedshlag) after having allergy issues due to a roommate. As I was moved, the staff was extremely helpful and was easy to transfer to different dorms to accommodate my needs! I loved the dorms at WMU!

Academic Rigor

I am a part of the WMU Bronco Marching Band. We took a survey that said out of our 300+ marching band, our average GPA was a 3.5! That is amazing for the University. It is always great the WMU gives opportunities to students to improve themselves at all levels!

Tips for prospective students

Keep an open mind. No matter where you go, when joining a University, you're going to experience changes...ACCEPT THEM! Always use your resources at WMU, they are always open for you to use. Whether its a math tutor lab, teacher office hours, study sessions before tests, the writing center, or just the library. WMU is a great place to be especially when stepping into a new type of life as a college student!

In three sentences

WMU has a beautiful campus, full of welcoming staff & students. The University gives a welcoming vibe that has several groups, organizations, activities and array of classes available. The faculty is very easy to talk to, extremely helpful when in need for classes, grade boosting, and even personal issues... GO WMU BRONCOS!

Daniel from Detroit, MI

06/27/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Safety is very important at Western and they spare no expense to try and keep and maintain a certain level of peace of mind for the students attending WMU. By police, security, instant 911 poles stations in various location around campus.

Clubs and Activities

The clubs and activities at Western are very active and geared towards progressing Western Michigan Uni. to better and safe campus and university. Every org. weather it be from Greek to LGBT focuses unity and success for its current and incoming students. For example holding tutoring sessions, awareness of current events on and off campus (etc.)

Great for these types of students

Western Michigan University is great for those types of student who are serious about their education and future career. I believe Western prioritize around their students academics as any great college or university should. Western is for those students who are creative, smart and not afraid of taking on the responsibility of being are leaders of tomorrow.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Well one unusual tradition i witness would be the painting of this big rock outside The Valleys (Dorms). On certain nights Greek organizations would go and paint this big rock promoting some event they're in or holding with their Greek letters.

Bang for the buck

Western has a lot of growth opportunities for student in many different areas of majors and minors. Such internships, volunteer services, (etc.) around campus and the Kalamazoo area.

What to do for fun

For fun the night life at Western is always something to partake in, but if your looking for something on the lighter side I might suggest joining one or a few even of the many diverse and active organizations around campus.

Food and Dining

Food and dinning personally for me was and adapting experience. For the simple fact that I couldn't eat what i choose or cook what i wanted. But the selections do vary and I think the will find something they would enjoy eating.

Dorm Life

Dorm life will be a new and adapting experience for any incoming first year freshman or college student. However it is a great opportunity to meet someone new and learn how to compromise and talk out problems and get to know one another. In addition to your roommate, there's a whole hall and floors for you to get to know many different people and make good study connections.

Academic Rigor

I believe the earlier the better. The earlier you register for the classes you need the flexible it can be for you. As far homework, test and quizzes professors are more than demanding on punctuality from their students. However, my advise would be to start early as possible and don't procrastinate.

Tips for prospective students

Get involved on campus (e.g) volunteer, go to games, support orgs. Don't take on much more than you can handle. (academic wise) Lastly, stay focused and develop and maintain good study habits.

In three sentences

Very diverse and socially accepting atmosphere. Various activities and opportunities for growth and development for academics. Where success is honed and protected.

Audreanna from Westland, MI

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has not been to campus.

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Food and Dining

I heard the cafeteria is like going to a great buffet.

Dorm Life

Their dorms look very clean and well managed and I have heard from many people that the dorms are safer than any other school in Michigan.

In three sentences

I was recently accepted here, and so far I am a fan of Western Michigan University. They have called to schedule advising, campus tours, and keep me up to date on my pending requirements. They have even sent adjusting tools and tips for my first year there.

Laura from Kentwood, MI

Most pathways and parking lots are lit up and there are security phones placed around campus. I say pretty safe!

Great for these types of students

Students who work hard, get involved, and play in their free time.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The flag poles near Wood Hall are a central meeting point, rally point, prime bake sale spot, and often on Wednesdays you will find tables of WMU gear up for grabs (after participating in the Broncos fight song)!!

Bang for the buck

Awesome professors and class sizes are small (accept lecture classes).

What to do for fun

WMU has a recreation center and many cafe's where students hang out. The surrounding city of Kalamazoo has a good night life venue.

Food and Dining

Through out campus there are many cafe's and some fast food chains. All of the cafe's have healthy meal or snack choices as well as sweet treats.

Dorm Life

I do not live in the dorms.

Academic Rigor

WMU offers many free study groups for the core classes, and free tutoring. Professors also make themselves available during scheduled office hours and/or upon request in order to assist students in their academics.

Tips for prospective students

When in doubt, confused, or just curious: always ask!

In three sentences

WMU is a great school with a mountain of opportunities for all students. Most of the professors are experienced, helpful and bring real life situations into the classroom. WMU is more like a home than a school, even for students living off campus.

Martha

Campus is very safe. There are patrolling cop cars all the time and the cops will even escort you to if you feel frightened. However, the cops are very lax with M.I.P.'s and drug use on campus.

Clubs and Activities

There are clubs and activities for almost anything at WMU and if there isn't then you can easily make one.

Great for these types of students

Western is so diverse I would reccomend it for just about anyone.

Bang for the buck

What is unusual for a college is that we get free buses both on campus and on town transportation. Western has a health center that is supposedly cheap for Western students and better than other doctors. It's not. I have insurance and with that I would get billed over $70 for a 15 minute appointment. So I would reccomend not going unless you need too.

What to do for fun

WMU has many clubs and volunteer things to participate in. There are usually games to go see every week and they are all free if you're a student at WMU.

Food and Dining

The food at WMU is almost always great. I've been to many different schools and Western definitly tops the list for best food.

Dorm Life

When you live in the dorms there is usually a couple of different, fun things to do every week by the RA's. The only downside is that you can hear EVERYTHING that your neighbors are doing.

Academic Rigor

Some classes are very easy while others are ridiculously hard. It honestly depends on the teacher whether or not you will get good grades.

Tips for prospective students

Take math courses elsewhere. Should you stay in the dorms you should know that the Valleys are about a 10-15 minute walk uphill from campus.

In three sentences

Great overall programs. Terrible math teachers. Great school pride by all students and alumni.

Kortnie from Dearborn Heights, MI

07/08/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

There are many available places surrounding campus that serve as recreational hang outs. However, there are many places on campus that are just as fun to hang out. There's the Miller Auditorium that produces plays (student discount is available there). There are also guest speakers always coming to visit (last year Jason Derulo performed) and many others fun things!

Food and Dining

There are so many cafeterias to choose from and so much variety when it comes to deciding where to eat!

Dorm Life

Residence Life can be very fun. It gives you the opportunity to meet many diverse people and to make tons of new friends.

Academic Rigor

WMU has great academic courses that help you figure out what career path is right for you, and also, what interests you!

Tips for prospective students

Make sure you know your class route by the first day of classes (getting lost sucks)! Freshmen 15 is not a myth, try to show restraint. Also, just remember to have fun in moderation, you don't want to fail any classes! Remember you're there to learn not party!

In three sentences

WMU is a great school. While it may be far from home it soon will feel like a second home! There's plenty to do and everyone is very friendly.

Zachary from Kalamazoo, MI

07/10/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

The campus is pretty safe. If you are walking around at night, there are multiple panic buttons placed around campus for safety. Pressing them sequentially will allow the police to track you if you are being pursued by an attacker.

Greek Life

We have both academic fraternities and social fraternities.

Clubs and Activities

There is a club for almost everything- from the anime club to the squirrel club. Just look around and you will find it.

Great for these types of students

Western is good for those interested in truly earning a degree, but if you are looking for fun and parties there are also plenty of those.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Don't step on the W outside of Waldo library! They say it's cursed and you will fail all of your classes if you're not careful. We also have Bronco Bash the week before school- a fun festival where you can get a lot of free stuff from various local vendors. There is also live entertainment and it is worth checking out.

Bang for the buck

They keep increasing the tuition so this rating is subject to change. There is a lot of remodeling going on, though, and as long as you ask for help you will find it.

What to do for fun

University Roadhouse and Waldo's Tavern are really good places to go if you are old enough to drink. Otherwise, the Recreation center has nice fitness programs and an indoor track. You can also travel to the downtown area and shop.

Food and Dining

The dining halls have some good food, but they don't let you take out food after a certain time!

Dorm Life

The dorms are old, cramped, and get really hot in the summer. No air conditioning allowed.

Academic Rigor

Western is not the hardest school out there, but it is also not the easiest. The professors will challenge you and encourage you to learn what you can.

Tips for prospective students

Always do research online about a professor before signing up for their class! You need to make sure you can understand and learn from them. You can also park in employee parking by the Waldo Library after 5 pm. It is a lot faster than walking from the parking garages.

In three sentences

The campus is very clean for the most part. There is a lot of construction going on, which can get annoying. The tuition increases are also hard to keep up with every year, but if you can find the right professors it is worth it.

Amy from Wyoming, MI

07/10/2012

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Campus Safety

There are programs which will pick you up if you are drinking and need a ride back to your dorm. Also, there are services which will walk you back to your dorm after classes if you don't feel safe by yourself. It definitely helps students out.

Clubs and Activities

MODA is huge on campus and puts on two fashion shows in the fall and spring. They are pretty big campus events.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There is a large W in the middle of campus and it is said that if someone steps on it, they will have bad luck. Students take this superstition very seriously.

What to do for fun

There is plenty to do on campus between clubs, social events, and meeting new people around campus.

Food and Dining

The food is good, but still cafeteria food. There are lots of surrounding restaurants if you are interested in something else.

Dorm Life

Everyone is fairly nice. It is safe to prop your door open and let people come in and say hello.

Academic Rigor

The classes are very interesting and it is easy to find something that applies to your interest and life outside of school.

Tips for prospective students

Go in with an open mind and a hunger to meet new people.

In three sentences

I absolutely love the campus and surrounding area. There is always something new and exciting to do. It is home away from home.

DeAndrea from Detroit, MI

07/13/2012

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Campus Safety

Western Michigan University has a very safe environment! They provide you with a number for you to call in case of an emergency. The school also has it's own police department on campus. The school enforces safety for each student. They want you to enjoy your stay at the school. Therefore, they make sure that your safety and academics are their first priority.

What to do for fun

Around Western Michigan University there are lots of things to do for fun such as, join a sports team, get involved in a group, go to bonfires, study with some friends, etc.

Food and Dining

Every day at the school the school provided the students with breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There were so many choices of foods. The food was very good and the place that where you will sit to eat isco mfortable for each student.

Dorm Life

During the orientation students were required to stay in the dorms to receive the experience of dorm life. The dorms are very beautiful and also clean. The beds were a nice size for each student. The rooms have a nice amount of space for both of the students.

Academic Rigor

If students are having a hard time academically then there is tutoring for each student that attends Western Michigan University. Your advisers are always willing to help if you have any questions regarding school assignments or anything that you may need answered.

Tips for prospective students

The tips I would give to prospective students are go to the university eager and ready to receive helpful information. Attend the college with open ears and an open mind. Ask lots of questions that may be helpful to you as a future student.

In three sentences

Western Michigan University is an amazing school! This school is great for all students who are trying to have a successful career. The campus is very beautiful and the tourist provide helpful information.

Lindsey from Mesick, MI

Apply early for admissions. Don't wait to sign up for student housing. Utilize campus as much as possible. You will save money and time!

In three sentences

Western Michigan is a home away from home! There are over 200 hundred groups to join at Western from anime clubs to fraternities and sororities. Curriculum at WMU is very versatile, there are many majors to choose from.

Mike from Detroit, MI

07/26/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

WMU is a very safe campus. There is rarely any ill-activity on campus, but in the event there were something to happen, there are call boxes place all over campus that take are connected to public safety. WMU also has its very own police force, and they are legitimate police officers, not just security guards.

Greek Life

WMU has a chapter of just about every greek organization that exists, including social, professional, business, and honor fraternities/sororities.

Clubs and Activities

There are more than 300 RSOs (Registered Student Organizations) here at Western. No matter what you're into, there's an RSO for it. We have a Squirrel Club. Yeah. And it's one of the biggest ones too. You know what they do? Nothing. But they have some pretty awesome shirts, though. Everyone loves the squirrel club.

Great for these types of students

People who love to go to an awesome school where everyone is great to one another; you don't have to even know a person and they will go out of their way to be freindly to you. Being a Bronco is all you need to have in common with each other. And we have one of the top aviation schools in the country. Our engineering, business, and health and human services schools are also nationally recognized, and many of our students and faculty in various other programs have gained national recognition, in areas such as film and video, journalism, anthroplogy, biology, recreation, communication, advertising, public relations, chemistry, dietetics, theatre, art, english, and occupational therapy, just to name a few.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Don't step on the W next to the library. You will fail your next semester. And McCraken Hall is haunted. And has asbestos.

Bang for the buck

Western is one of the top 100 public universities in the nation, and one of only five research universities in the state. Even so, Western's tuition is consistently below the state average. There are more than 240 programs offered through the doctoral level at the university, and for the past 21 years, has been recognized as one of the countries best universities.

What to do for fun

Campus Activities Board, which brings entertainment like concerts, comedians, movies, hypnotists, and a bunch of cool other things to campus, has an event every week that you can go to for only a dollar. Miller Auditorium is an actual theatre venue that has a Broadway season every year with legit preformances, like Wicked, Jersey Boys, and West Side Story. There are always student performances going on within the music, theatre, and dance departments. There are two great movie theaters within minutes of campus, and bowling alleys, laser tag, museums, art galleries, an air zoo (an aviation zoo), an apple orchard, and tons of restaurants, all within minutes of campus. And there are plenty of bars and clubs.

Food and Dining

Dining Services is pretty legit. You learn what cafs are better than others, but there isn't a bad on on campus. And if you're not feeling caf food, there are plenty of restaurants near campus with a wide range of prices and quality.

Dorm Life

Living in the dorms is a great experience. It's one of the easiest ways to meet new people. There's always someone to hang out with and something to do.

Academic Rigor

You can get by with just a bunch of easy lower level classes, but why would you want to do that? Challenge yourself with higher level and more diffocult classes, and you'll be proud of what you can accomplish.

Tips for prospective students

Keep a constant flow of conversation between you and your advisors. They're there to help, so let them. And partying is great, but don't forget why you're here; to get your degree. So work hard, then party hard.

In three sentences

Big school setting with small school relationships. The campus is never short of school pride. It's always a great day to be a Bronco.

Aubrie from Lansing, MI

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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What to do for fun

Everything is fun! Get involved in sports and clubs, hangout around Kalamazoo, go to sporting events, go to the Rec center, play pool in the dorms, and tons of other stuff!

Food and Dining

The food is DELICIOUS!! Lots of different options and a wide variety of food as well as places to sit and eat and places to grab a snack and eat on the go.

Dorm Life

Dorms are small, but you get to be close with your roommate and make new friends, participate in dorm activites, you're closer to your classes instead of living in apartments which are farther away, and you have many different places you can go to hangout in the dorm too.

Academic Rigor

Depends on what classes you take! I'm taking honors classes and sometimes they're easier because the classroom is smaller so you have a better change of getting one on one help but some subjects are much more difficult and some are more fun than others. More challenging than high school in some cases even if you were an A student.

Tips for prospective students

Definitely find all your classes before classes actually begin and wait until they start to buy your books, but don't procrastinate on that and try to get them within the first couple days if you can. Buy them on amazon too because it'll be much cheaper than the book store. Also, don't be shy and don't be scared to ask questions! Keep an open mind about all aspects of college and try lots of things but also manage your time and make time to study.

In three sentences

Western Michigan University's campus is my favorite part of the college, as well as the diversity of the student population. There are so many different classes I can take in all sorts of different subjects helping me become a well-rounded student, which is a main focus of mine. Lastly, there are so many places to eat and all the food is incredible!

Zachary from Battle Creek, MI

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Campus Safety

They have buttons you can press around the campus that alert security and they are always walking around after midnight to help students back to their dorms or even their cars.

Clubs and Activities

Western has almost 400 clubs that are student led and from the presentation i have seen about them they all seem really intersting

What to do for fun

Western has many clubs you can join for fun and also has its very own recreational center that has a gym, pool, sauna, track, basketball courts/volleyball, and racket ball courts.

Food and Dining

i have only been in the dinning hall there once but my experience with it was very good. all the food tasted great and it has every kind of food you can imagine. also the staff there is extremely nice.

Dorm Life

never lived in a dorm room.

Academic Rigor

i haven't had any classes there yet

Tips for prospective students

if you have any questions dont be afraid to ask because it will help you out in the long run.

In three sentences

Everyone on campus is very helpful even if it is the first time they are meeting you. It is very organized and has a great set up to it that once you learn is very easy to follow. Also how they have tutors that can help if with every subject that is taught there and the service is free.

Julie from Augusta, MI

08/08/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Well patrolled areas. Students can call for a ride when getting out of class late and they don't want to walk the campus. There are cameras in every area of each building and outside them as well. Security and local police are constantly available. Our crime rate is very low as well.

Greek Life

There are social and service based greek orgainizations. Some are co-ed, honors, or there are traditional greek groups.

Clubs and Activities

The student registered organizations are too numerous to list here. There is definitely a type of group for everyone.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Zombie VS Human is a great game to play. This public student group is a fun and exciting way to get to know others while playing a game at the same time.

What to do for fun

The night life in Kalamazoo is varied and suits a wide array of tastes and styles. There are nightclubs, bars, recreation centers, movie theaters, and much more. There is also a student recreation center on campus for exercise, swimming, tennis, aerobic classes, or any other activity you could want.

Food and Dining

There are many cafes and dining halls available to choose from. There are local restaurants that are in walking distance of any building. If you desire ethnic food that is also available. The newest addition is part of the sustainability program that offers organic locally grown food preparations.

Dorm Life

I personally have not lived in the dorms but I have friends that do and they say that the dorms are the place to be. They are warm and welcoming and make you feel like you are at home. There are many activities in the halls for all types of students. The University will place you with students pursuing similar degrees and interests.

Academic Rigor

The professors utilize learned life experiences to enhance the learning process. They are all willing to meet outside of class hours to offer extra assistance to ensure your success. The courses are well planned and easy to follow while still challenging you.

Tips for prospective students

My number one tip is use the advisers. They are there to help you and will guide you with as much or as little as you need them. There are many help centers on campus and online that should be utilized to improve learning.

In three sentences

Western Michigan University is the first step toward your future. They will allow you to grow and challenge you to be a better member in society. The student life is superior to any other college or university!

Brooke from Woodhaven, MI

08/22/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

96 of 201

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Campus Safety

I felt very safe on campus at Western during my first year as a freshman. I never heard anything bad that happened on campus, but I know near campus their is a bad area and I heard some stories. If you want to be safe though just stay away from those bad areas just like every other city.

Clubs and Activities

If you are interested in being in a club or activity Western definitely will fulfill those interests. They have almost anything you could thing of to be apart of and always want more and more people to join.

Great for these types of students

Western is well known for their aviation, engineering, and health programs.

Bang for the buck

WMU is very expensive if you are interested in attending with no scholarship awards.

Food and Dining

They provide a variety of meals, but the meal plan is very expensive. Also, the hours that the dining rooms are open are inconvenient and I found myself eating off campus a lot.

Dorm Life

The dorms are a very friendly environment and everyone is willing to make friends. They always had dorm activities and tried to incorporate everyone to get together. The only bad thing is they get dirty and I got sick about ten different times in the one year I attended. One year in the dorms was enough for me.

Academic Rigor

If you are looking for a good education I would definitely recommend you attend Western. All of the professors are well educated and provide a friendly learning space. They are willing to help those who seek help with office hours. These are extra hours professors give outside of class for you as a student to come in and have a one on one conversation with your professor on what you need help on or any questions you may have about that class.

Tips for prospective students

WMU is known as a party school also known as Wastern instead Western. You can exclude yourself from these activites, but it is very difficult to do so.

In three sentences

WMU provides an excellent learning experience, staff, and professors. Many students attend Western and the campus is not to small or large, everything is accessible by walking. Also, they provide a variety of majors and minor that you can chose from to fulfil your goals.

Angelika from Southfield, MI

Clubs, Organizations, Greek Life, and even volunteer work in the local area! There is an endless amount of fun in Kalamazoo!

Food and Dining

The food on campus is delicious. The cafeterias are usually never fully packed to the point where you won't be able to find a seat. The cafeterias are also set up buffet style so you can pick and choose what you want to eat.

Dorm Life

The dorms provide a sense of family on campus. There are many dorms to choose from which each have a cafeteria very close by. Activities, parties, and many other events happen in the dorm life. Overall very cozy.

Academic Rigor

Some professors are lenient while others are very strict. It all depends on what professor you get. Overall Western pushes academic rigor and wants all of their students to be successful.

Tips for prospective students

Never skip classes! This will automatically bring your grade down very low, trust me I've been there. Also as a freshman the school make sure to provide any information you may need and everything a student needs is all in one spot.

In three sentences

This school has some of the most helpful and intelligent professors around! The campus provides many clubs and activities to join as well as a friendly atmosphere. If you plan to live on campus the rooms are spacious and the cafeterias provide the tastiest food!

Food selection is outstanding. Also there are an assortment of places for off campus dining

Dorm Life

I never lived in the dorms however most of my friends that did complained seldom

Academic Rigor

The courses aren't overly demanding as long as you stay committed to attending lectures and engaging in the coursework

Tips for prospective students

Make sure you stay on top of assignments. Read the given literature. Don't Bite off more than you can chew

In three sentences

Western Michigan University is an outstanding school for learning from highly experienced professors. The area has lots of entertainment and places to mingle with other students. Also, Kalamazoo is a beautiful place to go to school.

Noelle from Grandville, MI

09/04/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

There are so many ways to get involved, including clubs, sports, intramurals, plays, the list is endless. There is something for everyone. I plan to get involved with intramural volleyball and soccer as soon as possible.

Food and Dining

The food here is amazing! I have not found one thing not worth trying. The soup is to die for!

Dorm Life

The dorm life is so exciting. Yes, the rooms are small but there is so many people that surround you and make you feel right at home.

Academic Rigor

The school work is by no means easy, but it is not overwhelming or unbearable, it is completely doable with a little effort.

Tips for prospective students

Get to know everyone around you. There are thousands of great and wonderful people that surround you. Do not be afraid to reach out.

In three sentences

Here at Western Michigan University everyone is so helpful, kind, and willing to give you their full attention. My first week here has been so eyeopening and renewing. If you want a school that is fun, academically challenging, and well worth your time and studies WMU is a great place to get involved in.

With college coming up, and the pressure rising, I find Western Michigan to be a place of solace, integrity, and joy. My father was an alumnus, but that's not all that has brought this college to my attention. The wide variety of majors, the living establishments, the FOOD--all these things and more draw me to Western Michigan University.

Sierra from Detroit, MI

The campus is pretty much safe, at night they have a number that you can call if you don't feel safe that will take you to your desired destination.

Clubs and Activities

There are various clubs to choose from that can fit the needs of almost any student. You can even start your own club!!!

Great for these types of students

This school is great for those who want to succeed especially for those who feel comfortable in smaller settings.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Bronco Bash is a great way the get students to interact with community businesses as well as a great way to get involved on campus! Also there is a lot of free stuff!!!!

Bang for the buck

Western isn't that expensive especially compared to the school I planned on attending! It is well worth your money!!!

What to do for fun

There is always something going on here at Western!!!

Food and Dining

The food is alright, could be better but the Bistro is the best here on campus!

Dorm Life

The Valleys are the best although they are far off campus and there is a big hill to get up to get there(it's great exercise) but for the most part living in the Valleys have been awesome! The dorms aren't to small, and the halls are really fun! Your RA always has something fun planned for the halls! But there are other options for those who want to stay closer to campus!!!

Academic Rigor

Despite what some may think your professors expect your best!!!! They are willing to work with you as long as your willing to learn and put in the effort. But for the most part I feel as long as the student does their part, they should do well.

Tips for prospective students

Come to Western with a open mind!!!!

In three sentences

I absolutely love Western it is all around a great school, with excellent accommodation for any academic need! There are a lot of resources which provide free academic support such as the math lab!!!

Micah from Millington, MI

The campus is extremely safe. There is a police station for campus that is open 24/7.

Greek Life

There are several fraternities and sororities to join if you want to join Greek Life.

Clubs and Activities

There are like hundreds of Registered Student Organizations (RSOs) to join and become involved.

Great for these types of students

This school is great for anybody. No matter your ethnicity, sexual orientation, or views. This campus is extremely accepting.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There are tons of traditions that many people have for campus. Unusual locations would have to be the cement whale and the Miller fountain.

Bang for the buck

The price can be a tad much for people, but for the education you are receiving it is great.

What to do for fun

Campus Activities Board brings a ton of things to campus. They bring big name concerts to campus every single year.

Food and Dining

Most of the dining halls are pretty good. They can become pretty monotinous.

Dorm Life

Living on campus is the best thing I chose to do. I have gained so many friends and become extremely involved. I am currently the President of the Draper/Siedschlag Hall Council.

Academic Rigor

All areas of academics here are great. Your advisors help keep you on track and make sure you are getting where you need to go. Some instructors are harder, but as long as you focus on your work and get everything done it all works out.

Tips for prospective students

Do not be scared to move on campus. Get involved as much as you can. Make many friends and make good choices. The friends you make are the ones that usually stick around throughout your college life.

In three sentences

Western Michigan University is an amazing school to attend. The school is extremely diverse on many different levels. The faculty really cares about students success.

Easy E

There's emergency boxes all over campus, so don't worry, it's not scary at night either because there's always people hanging around outside.

Clubs and Activities

There's so many clubs that you can choose from. Whether you like going to bible study get togethers, organizing events, being in a sorority or fraternity, or if you want to join the LGBT, or play intramural sports, there's stuff for everybody.

Bang for the buck

You have to be careful & know how to manage your money well, because college is really expensive.

What to do for fun

There's always activities going on all over campus, like barbeque's, hanging out with friends, events going on at the Bernhard Center, and lots of free pizza. :)

Food and Dining

The food here is good, I like eating in the valleys. I just don't really like walking next door to get some food since we don't have a dining hall.

Dorm Life

I love living in a dorm. ! Me & my roommate always get along & we always hangout outside of our dorm unlike a few others. It makes you deal with different situations but you have to work through them. I like having a roommate that is so much like me.

Academic Rigor

The professors are tough but being that it is my first year I'm still getting used to it all. I like my classes so far though.

Tips for prospective students

If you like meeting new people & making new friends then this campus would be great for you. Also, it keeps you busy & there is usually always something to do here. You have to do your work & keep on top of it.

In three sentences

I actually really like it here. The campus is pretty big & filled with diversity. I like walking around and just being friendly, because people are pretty nice here.

Help so much with money and you definitely get a good education for the price.

What to do for fun

SO much to do in Kalamazoo from dining to shopping you will not be bored! Everything is perfect college students and is walking distance.

Tips for prospective students

I would most definitely apply to Western it is a great school and perfect sized campus. They have all kinds of activities for first year students to meet friends. Most importantly they also help with financial choices and is affordable with all the financial aid available to scholarships they provide.

In three sentences

It is my first year here and I could not of picked a better college. Everyone on campus is so helpful and especially the professors. I can not wait to finish school up here and be a proud alumni.

Lavontell from Detroit, MI

09/20/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

You should never get bored on campus. The rec center is a great place to go they have so many activities there. Also the intramural sports like football and basketball are extremely fun to participate in.

Food and Dining

Food is okay but not great at all. I like it but am not overwhelmed with it. Some days you get a meal that you may not want and may not have any other choices.

Dorm Life

My dorm experience has been great here. I am close to classes and can move around with no problems. The dorm rooms are good size and have no problem with roommate.

Academic Rigor

Classes aren't hard at all. There be a lot of work at times but really nothing to difficult to understand. If you show up for class, listen, and study you should pass with no problems.

Tips for prospective students

Always go to class you might just like it. Get out and meet new people not hard at all here. Do good in class and you will love it here.

In three sentences

Very nice and satisfying and easy to contact. Easy to get around and find new people. The people here are great very easy to get along with.

Kelsey from Kalamazoo, MI

09/26/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

We have our own police for and have a blue light with an emergency button every 50-100 feet all around campus. The station is right on the outside of campus so it would only take a minute for someone to get to you. Also if you have a super late class you can call a campus transportation line and a car will give you a ride home if you are scared.

Greek Life

Its alright, definitely not anywhere close to the University of Alabama.

Clubs and Activities

Way to many to even keep track of.

Great for these types of students

Anyone! We have students from all around the world and very diverse backgrounds. Whether you want to be an engineer or a business major, you will find a place and many people to fit in with.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There is a big W on the ground under the clock tower that is right next to the library. Everyone says that if you step on it you will receive a failing grade. If you have a chance to visit watch how many people avoid the big W, it hilarious!

Bang for the buck

College and books are way to expensive in general.

What to do for fun

There is always something fun to do around campus, including football games, Bronco Bash, hockey games, hundreds of clubs (even ones that are not academic like Zombies vs Human)

Food and Dining

I would say that is pretty good for cafeteria food, good enough to gain the freshman 15!

Dorm Life

You may think you want to live in the Valley dorms but trust me the ones closer to classes (including Bigelow, where I lived my freshman year) are much better and just as much fun!

Academic Rigor

Put in the work and you will be greatly rewarded.

Tips for prospective students

Be open to all students and activities around campus. You will be surprised how much you will learn and what you can open your eyes to!

In three sentences

There are many amazing programs to choose from, including choices in majors that even bigger schools do not offer. I am a marketing major and I am loving it! The people here are nice and helpful with a very wide range of backgrounds, introducing students to new experiences.

WMUstudent

09/29/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

The college has their own police department. They are constantly keeping patrol around campus. Police boxes are set up all around campus with blue lights. If you ever feel threatened, in trouble or there is something wrong, you press one of these buttons and talk to the dispatcher. The police will be there fast. In addition, the campus has this program where a policeman will come pick you up if you don't feel safe walking alone at night.

Greek Life

I am not a member of a frat, but I hear the life isn't so bad depending on what frat you become a part of.

Clubs and Activities

Always so much to do on Campus. There is never a bored moment if you are always wanting to keep moving. There is always some sort of pick up game going on in some sport at the Rec Center and there are so many Student Organizations that one can join. See what to do for fun for more information.

Great for these types of students

Students wanting to be Pilots, Air Traffic Controllers, Aircraft Maintenance Technicians, Aviation Managers (Third Best Aviation College in the Country and the cheapest out of the 3). The school is also great for those interested in going into any kind of business as well as computer science. Those wanting to be teachers, city planners, lawyers, geographers and biologists might also want to look here. The school also has one of the nations best Music, Theater, Film & Art programs.

Bang for the buck

While it may seem like a lot of money. I feel Western gives you more for your money. In addition, students will walk away with a great reputation and a great school on their resume.

What to do for fun

There is so much. Go to sporting events is one way or participate in some of the Student Organizations. There are also numerous events that the Campus Activities Board puts together each year, including several a month. These events range from concerts to movies. Miller Auditorium also has great shows and concerts every year in which students get 50% of tickets. Students can exercise at the Rec Center or Ice Skate and Swim at Lawson. There is also always Bronco BASH in September.

Food and Dining

The Food & Dining Program here is great. So many different cafeteria options with so much great food. The school even has the menus for each cafeteria put up online and includes the calorie count for each food item. Meal plans aren't too pricey either, somewhere around $11 a meal depending on the plan you get. Each plan comes with Dining Dollars as well.

Dorm Life

Dorm Life isn't so bad. It can get pricey at times seeing as rates keep increasing. However, I have met a lot of friends due to living in the dorms and I thoroughly enjoy all the activities that the individual dorms organize. They're also very safe and secure.

Academic Rigor

The education that one will get at WMU is top-notch. It isn't too hard as long as you study and put effort into the class. Classes can be a bit on the tough side, but that helps students learn more about the subject and life. If you are struggling with a class, the Profs are there to assist you, make sure you visit them during office hours.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure you attend class. While many teachers put lecture notes online, there are a lot of discussions that occur in class that may end up being on an exam. Make sure you study as not all courses will be easy. Also, get involved. There are so many fun student organizations on campus and they are great way to meet new people.

In three sentences

Great school with great professors. I've had a few problems over the past few years, but overall it's been a great experience. All of the programs here are among the best in the country, so this school is not a bad choice. Tuition Rate is lower compared to other schools around the State who could offer the same programs.

Abbigail from Portage, MI

I feel completely safe on campus. All of the phones around and the places I know I can call for help, make me not worry too much about my safety on campus.

Food and Dining

I like how every day their is a variety of different foods. And you can tell the people in the dining halls try really hard to keep everything clean and fresh.

Dorm Life

The dorms are a great first year experience and make it easier to learn your way around the campus. If they were bigger and in better shape I believe more students would enjoy them more.

Academic Rigor

The academic rigor at this school is great. All the teacher's I have had have been amazing. Ive learned a lot and they know how to help you if you don't understand. They try their hardest to work with you if you need help.

In three sentences

I love Western Michigan, it is a great college and has a lot to offer for students of all interests. Western has a great campus and it doesn't take long to get anywhere whether you have a car or not. They provide many programs that help their students succeed.

Samantha

11/18/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

I've personally never had a safety issue. If you feel as though you're not safe there are buttons around campus that you can press and someone will come and walk you to your destination. I have never felt unsafe so I've never used that service but it is there for everyone.

Greek Life

Greek life is amazing. If you're too taken aback by the stereotypes of Greek Life i recommend rushing just to experience it for yourself. Joining a fraternity or sorority will guarantee you to make great friendships and never have a dull schedule.

Clubs and Activities

There's a club for just about anything you can think of, even feeding squirrels. If there isn't a club for something you're interested in, you can make one as long as you have two other people willing to start it with you.

Bang for the buck

Every university is going to be expensive. I am paying for college with no help from my parents and I believe WMU is worth every penny. Looking for scholarships (cappex is useful) will help you pay for your uncovered costs if it's something you're worried about. Financial aid is willing to help you which is called Bronco Express here.

What to do for fun

There's always something going on in Kalamazoo, you won't get bored. Bronco Bash is held in the beginning of the year and you get tons of free stuff from local businesses. The Greek parties are always awesome on the weekend, i recommend them. Downtown Kalamazoo is fun too explore also. Portage is the city closest with a good mall and great theater.

Food and Dining

Theres so many options for which caf to eat at, you can't really go wrong. Be sure to purchase a meal plan that's going to be enough for you every week though.

Dorm Life

Dorm life depends on where your dorm is located. The valleys are the funnest dorms but the walk to campus is not as likable, especially in the winter. Dorms on campus are quieter and closer to classes. Your preference will determine your dorm life.

Academic Rigor

Western is ranked among the top-100 public universities in the United States. The classes can be challenging but at the end of the semester you leave with knowledge that you will use not only for your career but life in general.

Tips for prospective students

While the campus is gorgeous, it is on the larger side. I recommend walking around to get familiar or scoping out the location of your classes prior to the first day. Secondly, do not hesitate to take advantage of the services-such as tutor labs and writing centers-that Western offers.

In three sentences

Western Michigan University has everything a prospective student could look for in a university. Not only is the campus beautiful, the buildings are well-maintained and being improved as well. The friendly atmosphere, helpful professors, and vast resources make Western Michigan University a school no student should overlook.

Ethan from Kalamazoo, MI

11/20/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Campus police seem to be on top of it all. We have a lot of trails here, and if sometime does not wanna walk home or back to the dorms alone at night, campus police will gladly pick you up in there charger and take you where you wanna go.

Clubs and Activities

We have an I Love Squirrels club. Not even joking a club for everything. We got you covered.

Great for these types of students

Art and Engineering students

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Don't step on the giant W in the sidewalk. Its said that if you do, you will fail your next exam. Pour water on the giant cement whale, it grants you good luck for your next semester. Humans vs. Zombies. Over 700 people play each year.

Bang for the buck

It's not a community college, so it's not the cheapest. However its by far from the most expensive. Free gym,

What to do for fun

Kalamazoo is one of the youngest communities to live it. Bars, festivals, and of course our famous human vs. zombies is always fun. Plenty of things to do.

Food and Dining

One of the cafes are awesome as can be. While some don't have as much.

Dorm Life

Valleys are not so fun. They will try and turn you away to them as a freshman. It's not so bad, but with so many freshman, half will drop out because college is not right for them, or will get kicked out. Kinda loud because of so many crazy freshman too.

Tips for prospective students

Large campus is better, I originally thought a smaller college would be better. Turns out it is very boring.

In three sentences

I love it hear, perfect for the average person. All issues most other colleges will have as well. I would really recommend.

Jonsie from Kalamazoo, MI

All sorts of Registered Student Organizations. Something for everyone!

Bang for the buck

VERY marketable degree but not as expensive as other schools like U of M or Michigan State.

What to do for fun

Many volunteer opportunities, work study program, shopping down town

Food and Dining

There are lots of options but the dining hall hours arent very friendly with some peoples schedules.

Dorm Life

I dont live in the dorms but from what I hear theyre nice once you decorate them with your own stuff and make them a bit more like home.

Academic Rigor

Projects and tests are fairly spaced out. Much better than community college!

Tips for prospective students

Strive for a 3.5 or higher GPA and a 26 or higher ACT score and you will be considered for the Medallion Scholarship. Just for participating you get $3,000!

In three sentences

Whether you know exactly what you want to do or you're undecided, Western is a smart choice! Its the perfect mix between a busy college and a personal college. Its also pretty affordable, especially if you qualify for their scholarships!

Arthur from Saint Joseph, MI

There are always WMU police around and the campus is well lit at night.

Greek Life

I do not know much about this.

Clubs and Activities

To many to name, WMU is great about letting students start clubs, there are literally hundreds.

Great for these types of students

Those that want to learn, expand, and experience new things!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

I do not know many of these, I know there are some rocks that get painted each year and student organizations always have something going on at the flag poles.

Bang for the buck

For the price, WMU is an amazing educational institution. The professors all want to see you succeed and the staff all want to help. There are a few aggravating redundancies in required courses however.

What to do for fun

There is a ton to do both on campus and off. On campus there are always sports games, tail gating, or some sort of student organized function. As for off campus there are plenty of fun places to visit on campus both for people over 21 and under.

Food and Dining

This was a big surprise to me, the food is actually quite good and even healthy. The meal plans are reasonably priced, and the multiple choices on campus makes it so you have a wide variety of food.

Dorm Life

When I transferred here I decided to give dorm life a try. The dorms are like all college dorms: okay internet, cable, and cinder block. That being said, WMU does a lot to make you feel welcomed.

Academic Rigor

Like all colleges there are hard classes and blow off classes. You get what you put in. So if you want to learn, you will, if you do not try, you wont.

Tips for prospective students

Get into the town, Kalamazoo has a lot to offer, specially if you are like me and from a small town. Also, get to know your professors. This can help get internships and letters.

In three sentences

High class education, with low class prices. Western is full of well educated professors, all very qualified for their positions. Western really earned its place as a top 100 university.

David from Detroit, MI

There are a lot of campus patrolling Western Michigan University and they are usually out all night, in case anything goes wrong.

Clubs and Activities

There are a lot of clubs here and activities, that anyone can be a part of. There is a squirrel club, hockey club, soccer club, and a variety of others.

Great for these types of students

There are study lounges in your residential hall just to go study or get away from everybody to complete some work.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There is a pond in the back of the campus, that has beautiful ducks and swans there.

What to do for fun

They are a lot dorm activities almost every night in the lounge of your hall. There are frat parties, cool organizations to join, and fun activities at the recreation center.

Food and Dining

The food at Western Michigan University is awesome. There are a variety of different foods and drinks you can choose from. In the cafe you can really make whatever you desire.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is kinda sweet, besides for the loud music from your residential neighbors.

Academic Rigor

The academics here at Western is not really too hard. They provide you with numerous of different resources that will assist you with your work.

Tips for prospective students

Keep a clear mind and stay focus on your goals. Work hard and be on time to class. Attend every class period every chance you can.

In three sentences

Western Michigan University is a exciting school filled with a mixture of different people from different ethnic backgrounds. Western Michigan University also has a excellent academic program. Also everything you need to get to on campus is in walking distance.

Brandie from Kalamazoo, MI

12/12/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

There is plenty to do for fun. Library is open until 3 am for those who like to read/study and theres plenty of parties off main campus in the frats or other apartments, there's also the Wild Bull on Thursday's for 18 and up.

Food and Dining

Food is good for awhile but it can start tasting like plastic the longer you eat it. the dining services are pretty flexible and late night carry out is a huge plus!

Dorm Life

Dorm life can be fun, as long as you get along with your roommate. For freshman, I highly recomend staying in the Valleys. That is where you will meet majority of the people and your friends.

Academic Rigor

majors focus closely on core classes needed for that particular major and includes some electives but focuses directly on your major of interest.

Tips for prospective students

Manage your time very well, keep track of your grades, and use the resources available on campus!

In three sentences

Western has professors that are very knowledgable of the program(s) they teach. The Parking services aren't the best, but the buses are very reliable. It is a highly respected university for environmental sciences and psychology.

Cassie from Cement City, MI

Don't step on the W by the library!!! Bad luck will be coming for you if you do!

What to do for fun

All of our athletic events are awesome to go to, especially hockey games! Lawson Lunatics are the best!

Food and Dining

The food here is pretty good... the menu repeats itself every week but it's always fresh. The salad bar is awesome!!

Dorm Life

I loved living in the dorms here on campus. They are a great way to meet new people and adjust to living on your own. The only downfall is the walk to the Valley dorms is uphill both ways!

Academic Rigor

Some classes, like any college, are pretty easy, but I think overall you really have to work hard to do well here at WMU. No grades are just handed to you and you have to earn them.

Tips for prospective students

Come and tour campus and see what it's all about before you decide! If it's a good fit, I'd definitely suggest it!

In three sentences

I love the feel here at Western Michigan University, but it is tough being in the large lecture halls after coming from a small high school and community college. Courses are challenging but rewarding and you truly have to work hard to earn a degree here.

Erin from South Bend, IN

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Campus Safety

There is a number you can call to have two people assist you walking to your next destination if you ever feel uncomfortable with who you are with or if you are alone, great safety rating.

What to do for fun

EVERYTHING! The student Rec. center is free for student, hockey games are free for student, and in Kalamazoo there is a ton of stuff to do.

Food and Dining

there are 5 dining halls, each offers a different type of cuisine.

Tips for prospective students

Get involved in campus life. There are tons of people you can connect with to get help, or just have fun with.

In three sentences

I've been to this campus many time for various events. Everything about it is wonderful, i love it so much. The students that attend make you feel so wonderful and there are countless events to meet new people, including Bronco Bash!

Mara

12/23/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Food and Dining

There are many options for food on campus, various cafes and dining halls. The dining hall closest to my dorm, Bistro3, has the best food anywhere on campus and also the best atmosphere. There are also late night options which is great for after night classes and the cafes are great to stop at between classes. With the meal plans you get dining dollars that can be used at the cafes and also to cover other meals if you run out during the week.

Dorm Life

The dorms are a bit outdated but they are still a great place to meet people. The Resident Assistants really make it feel like home. As long as you personalize your room, it isn't as bad as some say it is.

Academic Rigor

Transferring from a private college in Chicago I expected the academic rigor at Western to be less than what I had been introduced to but I was delightfully proven wrong. Of course it depends on the professors you choose to take but this semester all but one of my classes was very rigorous. If you want challenging courses they are more than available.

Tips for prospective students

As this school has a reputation for being quite the party school, it is important to make time for academics and be sure to stay caught up on school work.

Elora

12/23/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

I worked in a computer lab on the complete opposite end of campus, and didn't feel unsafe. I often walked home as a small, pretty defenseless female (usually with a laptop, too), and never felt especially nervous. Though, I began to use the free Drive Safe Kalamazoo service--they would drive me home from work almost every night my spring semester anywhere between, I believe, 6pm and 6am.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Don't step on the W next to Waldo Library, or you'll fail your first final. Ridiculous. Go, Broncos.

Bang for the buck

Not just Western, but the college education's value does not amount to the pricetag.

What to do for fun

Depends on how you define fun?

Food and Dining

Let me start with this: unless you are completely incapable of grocery shopping for yourself, avoid the dining plan. I was on the cheapest dining plan, which I calculated to cost $30/meal. The quality nowhere amounts to the price and is not worthwhile, unless you have a huge necessity for convenience; I had no car my freshman year, so I felt trapped in the dining plan. I'm a vegetarian, and, well, there's a lot to say about the dining experience at WMU. It can be best described as a high school cafeteria with a bit of pizzaz. Basic salad-making materials are available, soups, different entree options every day. Some options are more adventurous than others, I once saw a fried eggplant on a pretzel roll...sandwich-thing. Bistro 3 is the place to go.

Dorm Life

I went in blind, and got a dud of a roommate, which is no fault of Western. But they have several events to participate in, and safety around the dorms is decent. Just lock your door on a regular basis. Transportation is generally satisfactory, and you can walk most anywhere. I lived in Valley 1, Hadley Hall, on the fifth floor. I personally didn't make any connections with a single person from my dorm.

Academic Rigor

Speaking from someone who has only completed her freshman year of gen eds, there is very little that is truly challenging from an academic standpoint. I took a junior-level class my first semester, but one of my biggest challenges was trying to decipher my professor's thick Italian accent. Most of the difficulties are about conforming to each professor's individual, quirky expectations.

Tips for prospective students

Research everything as thoroughly and exhaustively as you possibly can. If this is the perfect school for you and your major and you know it, then dedicate yourself to it. If you are uncertain, figure out what may be a better alternative.

In three sentences

A safe launching point for a college career. As an undecided sophomore, I can't speak too specifically on the quality of any major, but the information I have learned is adequate. Make this your fallback school.

Tyler from Charlotte, MI

There are options for safe rides at WMU to get you from one side of the campus to the other. there are constantly police driving around campus.

Greek Life

I have never enjoyed the greek life at Western.

Clubs and Activities

With over 400 organizations, there are definitely enough things to do. Like we say, there are always things to do in Kalamazoo.

Great for these types of students

Engineering, Nursing, Speech Path., Business, Teaching. All are good but these are the top of the line.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There are many 5k that take place at Western. The Lawson Lunatics are a nationally renowned student section for hockey as well.

What to do for fun

Sports events are where it's at. There are also CAB events that are put on(concerts, comedians, etc).

Food and Dining

It is very good but is very repetitive.

Dorm Life

I have lived in the residence halls for three years and have enjoyed every year. Of course the residence halls are old but they work hard in making people feel at home.

Academic Rigor

In engineering, it is very difficult to get by without failing a class. They test you in every way possible.

Tips for prospective students

Go to a community college first. Do a lot of community service.

In three sentences

WMU is a great university for all students. It is a pretty small campus but the community is great. The hockey is the sport of the university. If you intend on coming here, try and go to a community college to get Gen. Eds done first.

Cody from South Haven, MI

All colleges are expensive. Find the right one for you because when it comes to price, WMU matches most other universities.

What to do for fun

Like I've mentioned, this is a party school. But there are so many other activities (safer activities) to do that your calender isn't big enough. Every day yields so many group activities that you won't be able to attend them all, simple as that.

Food and Dining

I've heard that WMU's dining services are the best in the area and though I haven't experienced other universities, WMU's food would would be extremely hard to beat.

Dorm Life

This is a party school. It can get loud. Patients and drive for an education will pay off in the end and the friends you make will make the ride even easier.

Academic Rigor

There are some bad apples for teachers but most of them are overly helpful and truly care for your grade and knowledge.

Tips for prospective students

I'm only a freshman but so far, this school has given me hope that I will achieve my goals and become successful in the long run.

In three sentences

Varied, aged, modern, and developing architecture of every hall. Segregated residence halls for loud party-happy students or the more sophisticated scholar. Not every teacher really cares about you success but most are happy to talk and develop a nice relationship.

David from Grand Rapids, MI

12/31/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

We have our own police department with 26 sworn in officers. Two officers in SUV's patrol the campus 24/7. All resident halls facing towards the outside of campus are locked at all times. The rest of the resident halls lock after 9pm and every student that comes in, must show their id to check in.

Greek Life

We have a campus dr that is given to a majority of the Greek life. Not all Greeks have their houses located there but we also encompass all of the NPHC.

Clubs and Activities

stated earlier too many to count.

Great for these types of students

Dreamers, Goal-oriented and High Achievers.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

This campus is almost at the point where it produces its own energy. Pretty soon the majority of the campus will be renewable.

Bang for the buck

Western really wants each student to grow no matter how advanced that student is when they come to its campus. The universities job is not finished until you are a better person than when you first entered.

What to do for fun

This campus has 400+ organizations all with different constitutions and pillars. There are gaming groups, capoeira groups, Entertainment groups funded by fortune 500 companies, so many different this to do. Not to mentions events put on by each group and the campus itself!

Food and Dining

All of the dining halls are slowly going under reconstruction. They ask students why types of cuisine they would to eat and around what times. The university is big on sustainability so the cafeterias are usually clean.

Dorm Life

Our residential department called residence life does a good job in bringing the right living style students together. They do not basse compatibility on what students like but rather how they live. Early riser, late studier, cleaner, athletic, etc. There are also specialty housing for certain majors on the campus to help with academics, easily.

Academic Rigor

Some people complain about *weed out* courses in certain majors. The university has a lot of students with many distractions and the course work for complicated majors do not allow for dilly-dallying.

Tips for prospective students

Be open, try your hardest to ask for help if you have a hard time. There will always be an answer or outlet, but just like in the professional world; it is your job to find it.

In three sentences

Western Michigan University is a diverse campus looking forward to expanding their horizons and cultivating unity. The University is based on pillars and always listens to the students needs. Finally WMU is an accredited research based university so education and determination is stressed within these pillars.

Rashida from Detroit, MI

Our campus is a very safe campus you are bound to see campus police throughout the campus and the police station is right off campus.

Greek Life

Western has plethora of different sororities and fraternities to choose from if you would like to be a part of and each one offers something different.

Clubs and Activities

Western offers hundreds of clubs and activities that range from, helping the environment, school associated organizations, and just organizations that are appealing to all types of people etc. The cool part is that if you aren't able to find anything that is interesting to you (which I'm sure you will) you can easily start your own.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

One big tradition that we have here at Western is called Bronco Bash!! this happens every year during like the first week of September where all different types of school clubs/organizations as well as businesses , restaurants etc. comes on campus to promote their business and/or organizations and gives away a lot of FREE stuff!!

Bang for the buck

The cool part about Western and the Kalamazoo community is that it is a college town and since you are a college student a lot of times you are offered discounts and even free stuff just for being a college student!!

What to do for fun

Besides going out with your friends our campus host multiple events during the week that gives you a chance to have fun on campus as well as each residence hall puts on specific events specifically for the residents of that hall or even specific floors of that hall.

Food and Dining

Since there are multiple dinning areas around campus you have a variety of eating options available to you as a student. Of course the food is nothing like a home cooked meal, but it is pretty good but it also depends on which dinning hall you choose from

Dorm Life

Of course dorm life has it's advantages as well as disadvantages but for the most part it is fun and a great way to meet new people and really experience college life.

Academic Rigor

The rigorousness of the courses here ultimately depends on your major as well as your own academic strengths and weaknesses.

Tips for prospective students

When you come here be sure to get involved, Western has numerous amounts of club/organizations going on. Also be open to meeting new people.

In three sentences

Western Michigan University is a great school that offers an abundant amount of opportunities to all of the students who attend. The staff as well as the students here are always around to help you with anything that comes to mind. The atmosphere here is great everyone is very friendly.

Brittany from Ada, MI

01/08/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

There is always something going on on this campus whether it be a 'Miller Movie' (which is a recently released movie show on a big screen in the campus auditorium for $1) or a blacklight party for Residence Housing Association. It is hard not to find something to do on campus. Or off for that matter.

Food and Dining

The food is food. The cafeteria hours on the weekend are a little annoying but a student can normally find food available at most times during the day. It is cafeteria food and there are dishes that many students and many students hate. I personally don't mind the cafeteria if only because I don't have to worry about making my own food when I get home from a long day at class and work. The cafeteria is almost always clean as well

Dorm Life

Again I a a little bit bias. I have lived in the residence halls for 3 years now and it has truly been one of the best experiences of my life. It is so easy to find friends and classmates close by when you live on campus. Especially if a student lives in Special Interest Housing like First Year experience, Wellness (substance free living), and Business community.

Academic Rigor

I would say it probably depends on your program but I know that most of the health and education majors have a pretty rigorous academic plan which they have to follow.

Tips for prospective students

I would recommend that every student lives on campus once. I am an RA so I suppose you could say I am bias but at the same time living on campus, especially if a student 'goes in blind', teaches the student how to deal with conflict best and how to work and interact with other people more.

In three sentences

I absolutely Love Western. I have made a home here and would recommend it to anyone looking for a place away from home.

Join the marching band! I am a musician and loved participating with the bronco marching band. Join a student organization to meet new people.

Food and Dining

Food is average but plentiful. Lots to choose from different dining plans and halls. You can save money first year by not taking the gold plan and make your own breakfasts or lunches in dorm.

Dorm Life

The students are friendly and dorm life is what you make it. I am in a dorm with one other student and live in cramped quarters but have access to all I need to be comfortable.

Academic Rigor

When they tell you in orientation that you will need 30 plus hours of study time to do well they are telling the truth. I was humbled my first semester compared to high school.

Tips for prospective students

Work with your student advisor your first semester. Get involved in student organizations. Take advantage of the free bus system for students to get around campus and into town.

In three sentences

Western in a great college for small town kids, the campus is not too big yet large enough and offers many programs. The student to professor ratio is good and you can get lots of help from the college resource center. Overall I am very satisfied with my experience and college life is good in the dorms.

Michael from MI

Lots of surveillance cameras everywhere, but I'd still travel in groups and avoid being out late. Maybe that's a freshman thing.

What to do for fun

Tons of free and cheap stuff to do. Bring board games for cold weekends. Students are given lots of perks to stay busy. Most athletic events are free to students.

Food and Dining

It's been pretty decent food.

Dorm Life

Freshman dorms really vary, but they are fairly obnoxious.

Academic Rigor

I've found freshman classes to be interesting and fair. The computer programs you sometimes have to buy for classes can be a rip-off because often you hardly use them.

Tips for prospective students

Don't walk alone at night--though campus feels pretty safe.

In three sentences

Western has been a perfect fit for me. Not too large and not too small. Get involved on the Student Activities Board! If you're not sure you're ready for college, keep in mind it is a very expensive party. Know why you're here.

NL from TR, MI

Campus safety is present at WMU. Constantly patrolling and making sure all is well.

What to do for fun

There are intramural sports that include both men and women. There is a great exercise facility that appeals to everyone. Kalamazoo area provides a lot of shopping areas.

Food and Dining

Kalamazoo area provides good places to eat food. On-campus food is good but can be pricey.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is great if you get into a good dorm.

Academic Rigor

Depending on the program/area of study depends on the type of academic demands required by the student.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure to familarize yourself to both campus sites and the kalamazoo area because it can be overwhelming at first. Look into your dorm options early enough to ensure you are placed in a good dorm. Know who you plan to dorm with well enough and can trust to ensure no problems during the semester.

In three sentences

Western Michigan University is a great place to meet new people and become involved in a variety of hobbies/activities that interest you as an individual. Also, the location of this university is perfect because it is just 5 minutes from the downtown Kalamazoo area. Finally, this university is great people of the caring attitudes that are provided by classroom professors.

Delandra from Virginia Beach, VA

I feel very safe on campus. There is an alert system in case something happens around campus and there are police call boxes everywhere.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Don't step on the W outside Waldo library!

What to do for fun

Dorms plan activities all year. You can join clubs or do sports. Going to hockey games is probably my favorite thing to do. Also, there is public skating at Lawson pretty much everyday for really cheap. Miller movies and concerts are the best!

Food and Dining

Some days the food is great but other days not so much. However, you can usually always find something to eat.

Dorm Life

The dorms are small obviously but they really aren't that bad. It is an easy way to meet a lot of people.

Academic Rigor

Some classes can be pretty tough while others are a lot easier. It really depends on your major and how much you work.

In three sentences

Western is a great school with lots of opportunities for everyone. Most people are very friendly and welcoming. Western also has a gorgeous campus and is located in a pretty nice city.

Kelsea from Allenton, MI

You are Forbidden from walking on the 'W' under the library, or you will fail your first exams in your classes.

What to do for fun

There are always sporting events on the weekends that are free for students. The student rec center is also free for students and a great way to hang out and have fun with friends. There are also showings at Miller Auditorium students can buy discounted tickets for.

Food and Dining

There are several different cafeterias on campus with different options in each, but they do all have at least basic selections if you don't feel like specifics. Their weekend hours suck though.

Dorm Life

Most of the dorms can be loud and not always the best environment for studying and getting work done, but it is a great place to meet new people and relax.

Academic Rigor

My classes were hard, but not so hard where I felt like I could not keep up. The amount of work each class required was difficult at times, but with hard work, it is possible.

Tips for prospective students

Get involved in extracurricular activities. Don't be afraid to meet new people. Talk to your professors and work hard in every class.

In three sentences

Western is a very friendly campus. I loved the classes and the people I met here. There is so much for students, as well as the community, to do and be involved in.

Ashley from Battle Creek, MI

One of the most important things for me, is to feel safe. I always feel safe on campus even after night classes when it is dark.

What to do for fun

There is so much to do at Western Michigan University. In the fall, you can attend a football game. In the spring you can attend a hockey game. There are many clubs that you can get involved with on campus, as well.

Food and Dining

Western Michigan University's food and dining is amazing! There are cafeterias in most of the main buildings on campus and all of them have amazing food.

Dorm Life

I did not live in the dorms.

Academic Rigor

I have been at Western Michigan University for three semesters now, and I have not taken a class that I thought was not good academically. I have learned so much in all of my classes at Western Michigan University that will help me in my personal and professional life.

Tips for prospective students

Get involved! The college life is so much more memorable if you get involved. This is a way to meet new people, help people out, and get help if you need it.

In three sentences

I love Western Michigan University. They are willing to help when you are in need and give you many resources. Going to Western Michigan University was one of the best decisions I have ever made.

Brooke from Marcellus, MI

02/18/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Other than an unusual incident, campus safety is very good. There's SafeRide, which will pick you up on campus and drive you where you need to go after dark. There are blue lights all over indicating the emergency phones. A WMU officer will be at that phone within 90 seconds from you calling. I've never had problems wandering on campus after dark, and no one I know has ever felt unsafe here.

Greek Life

Sororities and Fraternities require a certain amount of hours a week studying in the library, (they have sign in books), and volunteering. There are the usual parties and get-togethers symbolized by high heels and sports coats, but, on the whole, the Greek Life is pretty good.

Clubs and Activities

The clubs are awesome. We have a ton of them, so whatever you're interested in, we probably have a club for it. We don't? Make one!

Great for these types of students

Engineering, Nursing, Music, Aviation. Also, drinkers.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Under the bridge between the library and the computer center, there's a big brass 'W' in the sidewalk. Stepping on this, according to campus lore, causes you to have bad luck the rest of that semester. Also, we have a large stone whale on the west side of campus. (Don't ask. I don't know either.) Students particularly stressed about their exams will go and throw water on the whale. Then, we have East Hall. It's mostly abandoned and locked up, but people still go there, hoping to see a ghost. (Something about a professor in the walls.) It's a great place to watch the sunrise over Kalamazoo, though, as you can see over most all of Kalamazoo.

Bang for the buck

It's expensive and there are certain classes where you begin to wonder if the person teaching actually KNOWS how to teach, but it's not too bad.

What to do for fun

Well, there's Wayside, or you could go to The Library (the club, not the one at school). Honestly, Kalamazoo doesn't have much to do, so once you've gone to the museum, East Hall, and the sporting events, there's really not much else to do.

Food and Dining

The food isn't bad, provided you don't decide to subsist completely on pizza and cereal. There are various dining halls, and your dining plan works at all of them. They have different things in each dining hall, like a stir-fry station in one and a sub station in another.

Dorm Life

There's really not much that goes on in the dorms, depending on where you live. The rooms are decently small, but the RAs usually hold programs to alleviate the boredom. If you live in one of the communities though, usually there is something going on decently often.

Academic Rigor

This really depends on the classes you choose, but most classes take attendance and assign homework on a regular basis. There are very few courses where you can slide through without doing a large amount of work.

Tips for prospective students

Unless you commute, have a job, or leave every weekend, don't bother with a parking pass. $300 to be able to park only in the lot at your dorm is pointless. A bike might be a good choice. If you know what you want to major in and are living on campus, move into the corresponding housing community, such as Engineering or Fine and Performing Arts. Not only will you have more in common with those students, the communities usually have specific things to help you, like a maths, sciences and engineering tutor center in the Engineering House, or studios and practice rooms in the Fine and Performing Arts House.

In three sentences

Western is an open, diverse and accepting college. There are various multicultural and international clubs, an active LBGTA, and various religious opportunities on and around campus. It's ideal for students wishing to get a well-rounded college experience.

Chelsea from Jenison, MI

02/26/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Western's campus has a feeling of safety. If you don't feel safe at night, Western has a program where two volunteer students will come to where you are, and walk back to your dorm with you. When I had to stay at the library late at night, I took advantage of this. The students were always kind, and more than willing to try and strike up conversation during the walk.

Food and Dining

The meal plans are quite expensive and the food could be quite bland. However, I tried to take the opportunity presented to me and eat more fruit and vegetables. Those things are expensive if you're buying them every week.

Dorm Life

While my dorm had some decent people and they did create events in order for people to meet each other, I was disappointed in my dorm life. The dorm buildings really need to be upgraded and I greatly disliked having to sign in at night.

Academic Rigor

My Japanese instructors are pretty strict with grades, and not allowing make-ups. However, other teachers were willing to listen if you had a good reason, or needed help. However, be careful of the online homework. It's very easy to forget, and once the deadline passes, you can't access it anymore.

In three sentences

My Major professors are all very helpful and try their best to answer any questions I have or make time for me if I need it. Western's campus is very green in terms of trees, flowers, and wildlife that live there. Upgraded buildings are wonderful, but some buildings on campus are quite old and need an upgrade, example, the dorms.

Elizabeth from Hastings, MI

Many officers available, and there is a crew available to walk people home or to their vehicles in the evening.

Greek Life

There are fraternities and sororities available.

Clubs and Activities

Yes, very many.

Great for these types of students

A wide range of students attend the school so anyone can fit in.

Bang for the buck

The small fees tend to add up but there are many free resources such as tutors and writing labs that aren't as well known as they should be.

What to do for fun

Many clubs to join, concerts, plays and shows. Some are free others are not.

Food and Dining

Many cafe's and choices, usually with a variety of options.

Dorm Life

I haven't lived in the dorms, but I haven't heard anything too great about them. I hear they are very expensive for what you get.

Tips for prospective students

Use the resources they have available and ask questions. It will make all of the difference.

In three sentences

Many orientations for both new and transfer students to check out the campus and the resources available. The college practices sustainability and strives to be environmentally friendly. Many active clubs are available to participate in.

Megan from Detroit , MI

05/03/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

There is a program called Safe Ride that will come and pick you up after a certain time and take you anywhere on campus so you won't have to walk. There is also a police station that is located on campus so they are not far away just in case of a emergency.

Greek Life

Greek life is very active on campus. There are a variety of different organizations that anyone can join. There is no racial judgment in any Greek organization that you join.

Clubs and Activities

There are so many clubs and activities on campus that they have what you are looking for. If you and your friends don't find the club that your looking for you could start your own.

Great for these types of students

There are different activities that are fir for different students. There are hundreds of things that you can find to do on campus.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There is a actual whale that is buried below the ground and there is a statue of an actual whale in it's place. The whale was used for research before they buried it.

There is always some event that is hosted on campus or in your social life to do. Meeting people plays a key role in this because people know other people. Having fun is important in college... but not too much fun!

Food and Dining

Food and dining is a important issue. Your always on the go and you may not have time to sit down and eat so you can grab food on the go. There are different eateries that are available that you can get and leave out with them.

Dorm Life

Dorm life was a good experience my freshmen year. Living with new people was difficult but I made so many friends and people who I could talk to. We would even have movie nights when we weren't studying to spend time together.

Academic Rigor

Academics is very important on Western's campus. You can get the help you need from tutors or you can have your own study group. Studying with friends could take the edge off of studying alone and getting distracted.

Tips for prospective students

I would tell students to get involved on campus. Getting involved helps build your resume but it also helps you with meeting new people on campus. Meeting people can open different opportunities for you in the future.

In three sentences

I would rate Western a 10 for the different programs and RSO's that are on campus. I would also rate them a 10 for the academics and the standards that they hold students to. There are many different races and social backgrounds on campus but everyone is very friendly and glad to show you where anything is.

Michael from Grand Rapids, MI

05/06/2013

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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What to do for fun

The college is almost like living in a small town with a movie theater, small med-station hospital, grocery store with-in a 15min bus ride. They have a huge work-out facility with classes to helpp you keep fit and relax outside your studies.

Tips for prospective students

If you need to know anything go to the scheduled tours of the campus and pay attention.

In three sentences

This school has everything a person would need to achieve their goals for aviation. They have high standards for their students and plenty of help to make you succeeded.

Megan M

Greek Life is a great experience here at WMU. It is a great way to meet new people and get involved in the community and on campus.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Don't step on the large W near the library, it is said if you step on it you will not do as well in your courses.

What to do for fun

Downtown Kalamazoo is a fun place to walk around and shop. There is also a large mall about 15 minutes away from campus.

Food and Dining

The dining halls always offer different options (and a lot of them). I have never had a problem with any of the food, it has always tasted really good.

Dorm Life

I had the best dorm experience my Freshman year. The dorms are a great way to meet other students your age that you will continuously keep in contact with throughout the rest of your college life and after.

Academic Rigor

Though the classes may be rigorous there is always extra help available. Professors always have office hours and are willing to work with you.

Tips for prospective students

The campus is a great size; not too far of a walking distance from building to building. Very unlikely you will get lost.

In three sentences

WMU is such a great school which will help mold you into the person you wish to be after graduation. The faculty work with you helping you to live up to your potential. I have met such great people and have made amazing memories in my time here so far.

Katharine from Oak Park, MI

05/29/2013

Reviewer is A past student here.

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Campus Safety

I always felt secure when on campus. The blue light phones were always visible and campus is well-lit. At the time of my attendance, there was even a program where a student could call two escorts if he or she was nervous about walking home alone! I always found a friend in my classes, especially evening ones, to be my buddy on the way home.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

One of my favorite places was East Campus. The buildings are gorgeous and there are fun events happening now and then!

Bang for the buck

Ten years later I'm still paying off my loans, but I'm 100% sure I'm in a better financial situation than many of my friends that attended WMU's bigger and more expensive neighbors. I feel that my education at WMU was top-notch and worth every penny.

What to do for fun

Miller Auditorium and the student theaters were some of my favorite places! Miller's season always included amazing shows at a great price for students, and it was so fun to see my friends and classmates appear in WMU shows.

Food and Dining

The cafeterias were not that outstanding while *I* attended, but they've improved so much since! And if they still sell Sweetwater's Donuts in the Tower....!

Dorm Life

I attended WMU for five years and lived in dorms for all of them. I met some great friends, including Japanese students to practice my new language skills with. Many of these people are still in my life, even in small ways. I also secured the lucrative front desk job, which was a perfect work-study situation! (I could work in pajamas AND do my homework!)

Academic Rigor

I always felt challenged in my classes, but not overwhelmed. It was the perfect fit for me.

Tips for prospective students

Ditch your car. You'll save on gas, parking permits, and get to know the city by bus (or bicycle)! WMU has a beautiful campus worth strolling, and Kalamazoo can be a fun town to get to know!

In three sentences

I always thought of Western as a small big school. Located in lively and currently-growing Kalamazoo, it was a great city to live college life in. The programs at Western were varied and rigorous, and provided many exciting opportunities to participate in study aboard programs.

Pierce from Saline, MI

It is expensive, but that is no different than any other college in the U.S.... WMU is an underrated school across the board. Great place to learn and make friends!

What to do for fun

There are plenty of activities to do for fun! Join an RSO on campus. I've spent most of my time in the rec center playing sports or swimming! So much to do!

Food and Dining

Food here is excellent! I'm a big eater and this is better than what my mother cooked back home (which is surprising). The cafs are pretty spread out across campus, which can be good or bad depending on how much variety you want daily.

Dorm Life

Great dorm conditions! WMU keeps their facilities in tip-top shape! Very impressed!

Academic Rigor

I'm a middle of the pack student and I'm doing very well here. I've had to work harder to achieve my academic goals, but most professors will go out of their way to provide any help you may need!

Tips for prospective students

Get a routine down. Show up to EVERY class. Stay positive because college is an opportunity to break the poverty cycle!

In three sentences

WMU is a great school! The academic environment there is challenging but rewarding. There are so many support services available to help EVERY student achieve their educational goals! Go Broncos!

Elizabeth from Eaton Rapids, MI

06/07/2013

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Campus Safety

WMU has recently taken huge measures to improve campus safety. They have places 100 blue lights over emergency call boxes, so that people walking at night are able to have immediate access to 911. Police are an active entity on campus, and have hired about 70 people that are on call to walk with people at night, so no one ever has an excuse to walk alone.

Great for these types of students

ANYONE! Anyone can find something that they love at western! You will love it, and feel welcomed instantly!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

One unusual tradition is WMU's commitment to sustainability. Western is committed to being a self sufficient and green campus. They are proud to host recycling bins, not garbage cans, and a new Eco-building that harnesses 30% of its energy from solar panels.

Bang for the buck

WMU has a reasonable tuition price and many resources to help you finance that expense. By looking at scholarships and grants first, and then loans, WMU has a very do-able tuition rate.

What to do for fun

There are numerous student clubs and activities to join on campus. Incoming students will be overwhelmed by the number of clubs they are able to join. Student government, Vollunteer groups, choir, marching band, and numerous sports teams only begin the list of activities. Starting a club is also a simple procedure at WMU if a student so chooses.

Food and Dining

There are many different dining choices at WMU. Each resident hall features it's own dining room with a different food theme. Students are able to choose any dining room to eat in. There are also three meal plans that allow students to choose what works best for them.

Dorm Life

WMU has numerous options for dorms that allow you to choose between co-ed and only female/male dorms. You also can request dorms that feature bathrooms in the actual room, shared by four people. Another option is communal bathrooms that are shared by hallway. WMU has several vendors that also serve students and allow them to rent futons, carpet, and loftable beds (for select dorms that do not already have them). These many choices help to ensure that you choose dorm that you will be most comfortable in.

Academic Rigor

Depending on the academic rigor of the classes you took in High School, its difficult to say how you may adjust to college classes. However, when you meet with an adviser to set up first semester classes, you will be taking between 12-15 credits. This ends up being around 5-7 classes.

Tips for prospective students

Pay attention to deadlines and University emails. Be ahead of the game by signing up for housing and orientation and quickly as you can to ensure that you get the placements that you want the most. Also, join extracurricular activities that interest you right away to meet new people and get involved.

In three sentences

Western Michigan University provides the resources of a large sized school, but the personal attention of a smaller university. While I am part of a huge community, with many student activities and clubs to join, I have a personal adviser that I can meet with at any time. Teachers and students at Western alike are also very inviting, understanding, and help you get on the right path to achievement quickly.

Caitlin from Kalamazoo, MI

Western is great for students who want to change their life. If you have the drive to succeed but also want to have fun, Western is the place for you.

What to do for fun

There are so many things to do for fun around Western. Joining a club or an organization of some sort will bring about fun activities. Also you can explore Kalamazoo, it's a great city.

Food and Dining

I have never actually ate on Campus but I have heard that the food is not to bad. There are some excellent restaurants around campus.

Dorm Life

The dorms are small, but they are building apartment style dorms.

Academic Rigor

I believe that Western does an excellent providing a challenge for each student. With hard work and dedication to school it can become easy to make it through, but you have to have the drive to succeed.

Tips for prospective students

The one thing I encourage all students to do is get involved. There are so many clubs and organizations, it is easy to be a part of something. Step out of your shell and try something that you have never experienced.

In three sentences

Western Michigan University is an excellent school for any student wanting to excel. The school provides amazing opportunities for any student in any field. It is very easy to find a home within Western.

rokaan, MI

06/13/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

There are various clubs on campus including one for the ever popular Doctor Who. The school has published authors come in to speak frequently. The campus presents movies that have been released in the current year at inexpensive prices.

Food and Dining

The student building has a few fast-few restaurants Subway is the only one that comes to mind right now but there are a couple others, if one is not inclined to eat the campus food. There is a cafe in Sprau Tower which I do not recommend.

Academic Rigor

I have found that showing up to class and doing the work acutally helps in the academic arena.

Tips for prospective students

Check out hidden cost such as parking which will one you over $300 for a year. The meal plans are expensive as well. Just walking in the door and talking to your academic advisors, after being accepted, for the first time will cost you $300.

In three sentences

Western has great advisors and instructors who get back to you in a very timely manner via e-mail with any questions one might have. The instructors are also helpful in a face to face manner if one prefers. Western gets a great selection of Broadway plays performed there every year.

Evan from Wayland, MI

06/16/2013

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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What to do for fun

There are many student groups devoted to organizing events that will be fun and affordable for all students. Too many to list. Whether it be playing Magic and D&D or hitting the gym with a couple friends there is entertainment for everyone at WMU.

Food and Dining

Meals can either be taken on campus in one of the many dining halls found all around campus or at one of the many restaurants located near campus in downtown Kalamazoo. The dining halls provide a great deal of variety offering daily specials and differing menus from hall to hall.

Dorm Life

The dorms are small but well maintained.

Academic Rigor

I haven't started at WMU but from my understanding the coursework is pretty typical for most colleges.

Tips for prospective students

Apply for scholarships as soon as you can. File your FASFA early so that you can apply for the Endowment scholarships. Even though Western's tution and housing is fairly priced college is still expensive. Never underestimate the value of even the smallest scholarships.

In three sentences

Western Michigan University is a wonderful school. They are offer some of the premier engineering courses in the nation. Their facilities are constantly being updated with the latest and greatest for every field, from Music Education to Paper Engineering they have a little bit of everything.

Brittani from Detroit, MI

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Campus Safety

There's a police station is right on campus.

Great for these types of students

Great for friendly, active people.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There's a circle somewhere on campus where if you step in it and speak only you can hear your echo.

Food and Dining

It's pretty good.

Dorm Life

The dorms are pretty normal. You have wi-fi and cable. The beds are actually pretty comfortable. Most people I've talked from other universities say they're beds are uncomfortable so that's a plus. It's just like sharing a room so I'll probably adapt easier. I'm just a freshman.

Academic Rigor

It's pretty rough I hear but as long as you don't get caught up in the social aspects too much and prioritize then you should be fine.

In three sentences

Western was not my first choice but I now think it was the right choice. Everyone I met was really nice and my advisor helped me a lot. I can't wait to return in the fall.

Carla from Arlington Heights, IL

Get involved! There are so many opportunities to either be involved or support those who are.

Food and Dining

It's awesome at first, but it gets old.

Dorm Life

Living in the dorms closer to main campus allows you to have two rooms, so you and your roommate don't have to share!

Academic Rigor

GenEds are super easy.

Tips for prospective students

If you are coming from out of state, I would only recommend coming here if you're looking to go into Aviation or Performing/Visual Arts, just because tuition is so high. The school is a great place though, so if you get some scholarships (which are easy to find from the university), come join us!

In three sentences

Western Michigan has an amazing Performing Arts program. I love everyday here and I learn so much from our amazing faculty. Our facilities are top of the line as well.

Cassandra from Covert, MI

07/24/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Bang for the buck

There are times, when you are in class where you find students that are very friendly or very cold. Even so, don't be discouraged, the right students that become friends will find you. Sometimes, in some lecture classes, though, you will have to stick it out on your own.

What to do for fun

Hmm... for fun there are several clubs to join and create, even a squirrel club. There are also several events that the students on campus hold for charity or for fundraising. Other students, over age, go to clubs or club on the outskirts of campus to hang out with friends

Food and Dining

Depending if you want something healthy are something that will fill you up, there are several dining halls and places on campus and other restaurants off campus as well. My recommendations would be the sushi that is made by the campus or even the salads. The only negative aspect would be some of the negative attitudes of students attending the registers.

Dorm Life

I do not live in the dorms. I am a commuting student so i wouldn't know how to rate this subject. From the comments from friends, though, be careful of your belongings, speak up with whoever you live with, and have some fun, if possible.

Academic Rigor

Classes might become intense after a few days, but don't fret since your professors are there to help in aspect of the class you are taking. Some professors are more helpful than others since this is your chance to become independent and strive to the top with little to no help. Just stay calm and carry on.

Tips for prospective students

Some tips would be dont be afraid to ask for directions from the students walking around on campus since they wont bite and are very kind. Also, if you need a place to study, sleep, or look for information, the library is the place to go. One of the best places for the bookworm or someone that needs a snooze before class.

In three sentences

Western MIchigan University is a very diverse school that treats all their students fairly and with respect. If any student is having difficulty with their classes or anything, there are several resources to go to get help. I really do love this school and cant wait until I go back in the fall.

Matthew from Berrien Springs, MI

There is a movie rental place near the campus and there is recreation center on campus.

Food and Dining

Eating on campus might be good at first but after a while you will get tired of it so its best every once in a while to have money to buy food or to go out to eat somewhere like subway or at biggby coffee.

Dorm Life

It was a good way to meet people and to feel at home on campus.

Academic Rigor

It started not to challenging when you are just doing one class for your major but it gets harder once get further in your degree.

Tips for prospective students

It is important to work closely with your advisors. It is important to make sure that you stay on top of your work. Make sure to balance work and fun.

In three sentences

It is a great school where I am able to achieve my goals and at same time have a lot social activities. Also, there are a lot of student organization for you to participate. The professors are fairly good at answering your questions and they do make an effort for you to understand the subject.

Ashlyn from Sturgis, MI

Safety guards are always walking campus at night and will walk you to your car. Cops are always patrolling as well.

What to do for fun

Join an intramural sport, they are lots of fun and keep you in shape. Visit the kalamazoo valley museum for free. Miller movie night at our auditorium and concerts are always fun.

Food and Dining

The food is always good at any dining hall. Especially taco tuesdays and cary out at night. There are a variety of choices at every meal.

Dorm Life

Dorms are an awesome experience. You will meet life long friends and have ex

Academic Rigor

Some classes are going to be harder than others, thats just the way things work.

Tips for prospective students

Whenever you have questions about classes or whether you are on the right track go see an advisor. Make the most out of every class, you never know when you will need to regurgitate the information. Live in the doors your first year, it is a wonderful and fun experience. There are a lot of resources on campus, learning how to use them your first year will make the rest of your college career easier.

In three sentences

Western Michigan University has an abundance of extracurricular groups to help students with common interests meet people. Western Michigan University provides many opportunities for the students to get involved in the community. Western Michigan University is working towards a more environment friendly campus as well as upgrading the facilities.

Anonymous from MI

For cafeteria food, it is actually pretty good. Bistro 3 is definitely the best.

Dorm Life

It isn't luxury living, but it's where you make some of your lifelong friends.

Academic Rigor

Fantastic academics and great professors.

Tips for prospective students

Don't let anything overwhelm you!

In three sentences

Western Michigan University is located in a fantastic college town. There is never a dull moment when you're here. If you are looking for a school with great academics and friendly people, WMU is the place to go.

I love the Western Michigan University campus. It's so big and there is so much to do right here on campus.

Bang for the buck

I get the most out of attending Western Michigan University by participating in some of the activities that my University offers.

What to do for fun

* I go to some of the Greek parties on the weekends. * I study sometimes with other students at my dorm and this helps a great deal. * I shop at a Meijer and Walmart in the area on occasion.

Food and Dining

The dining hall at Harvey Hall is really great!! I love the hours and the food. It offers a wide variety of foods.

Dorm Life

I love my dorm. Harvey Hall is a great dorm and I have a wonderful roommate that the University selected for me. Thank You WMU!!

Academic Rigor

The FYE Course at Western Michigan University provided me with a whole new way of thinking especially when it comes to dorm life and the fact that my parents are not with me to make my decisions. I must make coherent and precise decisions that keeps me on the right path to succeed as a college student.

Tips for prospective students

*Attend Class *Study *Take the First Year Experience course that Western offers. It's an elective that gives you good insight about the University and how to survive as a student here at WMU.

In three sentences

Western Michigan is a great school. The Faculty and Staff here really go out of their way to help the students succeed. I feel that I have all the tools necessary to be an excellent student here at Western Michigan University.

The Western Michigan University sign on the ground by the SRC flagpoles. The Flagpoles in general on center campus.

What to do for fun

Anything and everything. You can join an RSO, go to he SRC and workout, study at the library, be at the bernhard mall.

Food and Dining

It's okay, better than high school cafeterias.

Dorm Life

Pretty amazing! I met so many new friends who live on the same floor as me. It makes my college experience that much better. May be a little hot when you first get here. NO AC.

Academic Rigor

Pretty tough, but you should be able to get through the class passing with AT LEAST a C average.

Tips for prospective students

Always stay on top of things, especially your homework. If you start to slack on your homework, everything will start to go down hill. Join RSOs, it will be a great opportunity to meet new people.

In three sentences

This school is pretty amazing. Everyone on campus is polite and there if you need any questions answered. Also, make friends in your classes, that will be key when you need to study the material with somebody to get a good test grade.

Kendra Warner

Many different groups you can join that fit your life. Have many activities that you can participate in and become really close friends with all of your fellow sisters and brothers.

What to do for fun

You can walk around campus and view all the art that you want. We are on of the schools with a lot of art set up all over campus.

Food and Dining

Great food, they have so much to offer. You can basically get anything that you want. Huge dinning halls with plenty of seating.

Dorm Life

Great, best way to make friends everyone is fun and always looking for stuff to do. They have different events that always go on. Plus the dorms are in a good walking distance to all of the class buildings.

Academic Rigor

Offering many classes, from art majors to medical majors. You have to put in a lot of work for your classes, but that only so that you really understand it. After, all the work is done you are proud of yourself for memorizing and accomplishing everything.

In three sentences

A great school that offers many different majors. Class sizes are the right amount, not to big or small. Very friendly people.

Katie

10/02/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Campus safety was a big deal when I was looking into colleges. When you aren't at home you do not know the area well and you want to feel secure. Western has put a tremendous amount of effort into making sure everyone feels safe on campus. There are always Western cops patrolling the campus, there are phones to call anywhere. There is also safe ride cars and taxis that will take you around campus at night for free.

Great for these types of students

I know a bunch of schools will say this. But really this school is great for any type of student. It fits the need for a lot of students. There are classes with lecture halls, and there are classes with a small amount of people in them. There are fun things to do on the weekend for any personality. There are tons of groups to get involved if you are into that.

Bang for the buck

Recently, Washington Monthly magazine released its new Best Bang for the Buck list. Western Michigan was on the list under the top 50 for the whole United States.

What to do for fun

There are tons of things to do on and off campus to have fun. There are activities going on during the week in the dorms. For the weekend they have tons of fairs, people coming on campus and talking about interesting things, giving out coupons for free things to do. There is a bowling alley, you can go ice skating in the winter months. Lake Michigan isnt too far at all for a nice day at the beach!

Food and Dining

Food is pretty good! They always have lots of options for you. I am not a picky eater at all, but they have tons of options for people that are. They always have cereal and peanut butter and jelly at any meal. Plus they have wonderful fresh salads and fruit at lunch and dinner.

Dorm Life

Not a terrible dorm life at all. Dorm life is something everyone should experience. The Valleys are where majority of the freshmen stay and its a wonderful place to get to know people. Lots of activities always going on in the dorms to keep you busy!

Academic Rigor

So far it hasn't been terribly challenging. Yes it is an adjustment change coming from a high school to college level classes. But once you realize how things work, your academics seem to get easier.

Tips for prospective students

Come and visit the campus. You'll fall in love. Its a beautiful and clean area. The atmosphere is fun and inviting. One tour here, and you will realize how wonderful it. is.

In three sentences

Western Michigan University is a clean, and comfortable, and easy to adjust environment to live at. The school cares about how you do academically, and your personal problems. Many people say other big schools look at you as just a number ; I do not feel like this at all being a new student.

Pretty Bronco from KALAMAZOO, MI

10/11/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

Here at Western they practically engage you in all of the activities. Everyone is invited to everything and the atmosphere is pretty accepting. So get out of your dorm and go take a walk around campus during fall welcome week and you'll come into all types of excitement.

Food and Dining

Westerns offers one of the most diverse dining experiences you'll ever have. Rather it's dining on campus at one of our many dining halls or dining fairly close to the campus, you'll be satisfied. With the variety of options you will have, you'll never get jaded by your choices.

Dorm Life

Be considerate. If your not use to sharing or cleaning, this is a great time to learn and practice. Any quarrel with your roommate can lead to academic probation. So be responsible, respectful and reasonable at all costs.

Academic Rigor

Choose classes that fit your interest. Do not declare a major just to conform yourself with others. Take your time and test the waters. By the end of your freshman year you should have a pretty clear idea of what intrigues you and what your strengths are.

Tips for prospective students

TIP 1: Utilize the bus system and the recreation center because it will already be accommodated in your tuition. TIP 2: Go to class. It's a simple rule of thumb that will really help you get ahead if you want to succeed. If your scared about academics take note that you will be graded for attendance and participation in most classes, which will help you. TIP 3: Be social and active on campus! Get out, volunteer. Everyone your freshman year will be timid and just as nervous as you.

In three sentences

Here at Western we are friendly. This a very pro-active campus, so there's plenty of time and enjoyment in getting fit. And you'll also create experiences with others that will last a lifetime.

Amber from Kalamazoo, MI

I know a lot of people love it, I just never joined a group like this. i think maybe I'm scared? haha

Clubs and Activities

I haven't joined any clubs but I've been to a few of the activities. Bronco bash was a lot of fun and a few other fund raisers that have been held on campus have added a much needed break to my schedule.

Great for these types of students

You will get out what you put in. If you mess around and party too much you wont get the full amount of experiences this school offers. If your serious abou your education, come here. There's so many resources and offerings you will find what you need.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

I love to spend my time in waldo library. It's so relaxing and quiet. I love to sit in one of the big chairs and read. Everyone takes their education seriously and there's no one messing around and causing trouble. Very nice.

Bang for the buck

I'm an out of state student. I've only been here for a few months and the out of state costs has really put me in a lot of financial burdens but I understand that you have to cater towards your state students first. In a year I'll be able to apply for residency and hopefully that will cut my costs by half! Took 6 units my first semester, cost me $5k and that's my out of pocket expense including my fafsa and grants! And I have a very high gpa. Ouch!

What to do for fun

What is this fun you speak of? haha. Study study study. But on campus there's plenty of opportunities to join different organizations and dive into whatever your interests might be.

Food and Dining

The cafeterias are awesome. All you can eat for like $7. It's no steak and lobster but what is there hits the spot.

Dorm Life

I got an apartment because it's cheaper and take the bus straight to campus.

Academic Rigor

Study, study, study. Go to class every single day, there's no excuse other than sickness to miss a lot of classes. Get to know your teachers, they are amazing people and are willing to teach and help you with anything you might need.

Tips for prospective students

Budget your finances and make sure you don't end up in more debt than you can handle. Have fun and take advantage of all the activities and speeches given by professionals in your field.. Meet new people! Time to come out of your shell and experience new things!

In three sentences

Beautiful campus rich with hunger for learning. Plenty of teachers per students, never cramming for classes and resources. Quality school with quality students.

Aaron

Western has so many clubs and activities! It's very easy to get involved on campus.

Great for these types of students

I've found it's great for outgoing and accepting people, but the diversity on campus is very wide, not only in ethnicity and other such external traits, but with personalities as well. I've met very few people who are dissatisfied with their Western experience.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Funny story: the Rapunzel tower, which overlooks campus, is actually a function (or abandoned, depending on your sources) asylum apparently! Legend has it that a brick falls from it every time a virgin graduates. It's still pretty sturdy if you ask me. Also, remember never to step on the W near Waldo! If you do, bad luck will ensue unless you can get to the whale, but by time you do, it'll be too late. But don't worry, if you get hit by a bus, your tuition will be paid in full by President Dunn!

Bang for the buck

Tuition, as always, is way too high. BUT the overall experience of WMU is definitely worth it!

What to do for fun

You can always head down to the bowling alley! Miller Movies are supposedly really fun. Another really interesting thing to do is go see a show at the University Theatre, which you get $5 tickets for, or a touring show at Miller, which you get half-off tickets for! They're always great. It's a very fun area to explore, but I do recommend a car as the hills are certainly not alive with the sound of music.

Food and Dining

OH MY GOSH YES. You might as well get the unlimited meal plan because your life will be consumed with Bistro Pizza, Burnhams Waffles, and Bigelow Carry-Out.

Dorm Life

The bright side with the dorms is that you're in very close proximity to all your friends! Unfortunately, the dorms aren't of the best qualityâ?¦ BUT, to grow friendships, I recommend living there your first year at least!

Academic Rigor

The coursework is challenging, but it is very exciting and relevant!

Tips for prospective students

Don't be scared to make friends - because you will! Remember to keep in touch with your family, and go home to visit oftenâ?¦ Also, if you plan on living in the dorms, bring LOTS of Command Strips.

In three sentences

Western Michigan University is full of a wonderful, familial spirit. It's so easy to make friends and to find a niche. There are very few drawbacks, and the benefits greatly outweigh them.

Rebecca from Livonia, MI

The campus is very safe. A campus escort service runs everynight. Either they can walk with you back to your dorm or you can request a car service which will drive you home.

Clubs and Activities

There are over 200 clubs and there is one for everyone.

Bang for the buck

The tuition is not too expensive and you get a lot included. There are free buses that go all over campus and all sporting events are free.

What to do for fun

There are always activities going on. There is almost always a sporting event to go to. Occasionally a comedian or a musician will come to campus and admission is either free or $1 with a student ID.

Food and Dining

The food is very good. Some cafeterias are better than others. Each cafeteria has a different menu and it can be checked online everyday.

Dorm Life

The dorms are pretty standard. Most of the rooms are suite style where you get your own bathroom. The bathrooms are updated. The staff in the dorms are very kind and work hard to get to know the students and make them feel included.

Academic Rigor

The academics are amazing and the professors are there to help you. The work is not too difficult yet you learn a lot.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure that you keep your grades up and learn good study habits. The first semester can be overwhleming but you will get through it. Get out and make some friends that you can hang out with and study with.

In three sentences

Western is not too big but not to small. I would recommend this school to anyone who asks. The school has excellent academics and there are so many activities to do on campus.

Phillip from Dewitt, MI

12/14/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

I have never had a problem with safety on campus, nor have I ever felt threatened.

Greek Life

So far Greek Life has been pretty fun. The only problem is during my initiation my fraternity was accused of hazing and we were not allowed to finish initiation. This was very disappointing because we were not being hazed at all. I was very upset and now we are not allowed to do much at all. It would be better if the school would ask questions first before punishing and drawing conclusions.

Clubs and Activities

There are a lot of clubs to join.

Great for these types of students

WMU is great for students interested in Business, Aviation, Psychology and Engineering

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

I cannot think of any

Bang for the buck

With all things considered the price is worth the experience.

What to do for fun

During the first month of school there were many activities for students to meet each other and have fun, and this was something I enjoyed. There are usually plenty of things to fill the free time.

Food and Dining

Most of the time the food is okay but the vegetarian choices are somewhat limited. Some of the time produce to make a salad is not very fresh and that can also be annoying. There are usually things to eat, but sometimes it can be bland.

Dorm Life

At first the fact that there was no air conditioning was very bothersome. It can be a problem if you have noisy neighbors because the walls are thin. You have everything you need in the dorms to live and that is all you can ask for.

Academic Rigor

Most classes at WMU are not incredibly challenging. The courses that are required for a degree have not been very challenging so far. Some of the courses I took were more challenging than others and I look forward to taking more courses that challenge me in the future.

Tips for prospective students

It is important to take courses that are appropriate to your level of education. I suggest taking courses that are not too challenging your first semester because college can be very overwhelming at first. Another thing that it is important is to recognize the fact that college is a chance to be the person you have always dreamed of. Get to know as many people as possible and do not be afraid to make new friends, because this is the place to do it. Also, take 15 credits per semester or you will not graduate on time. This is something the advisers do not tell you when you are signing up for classes.

In three sentences

So far Western Michigan University showed clean facilities and professional teachers. Most of the food has been up adequate, but sometimes it can be tasteless. The only thing I don't admire is the fact that losing your student ID requires you to pay $30.

Diamond from Highland Park, MI

01/07/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

WMU provides a driving services for free to anywhere you want to go on campus during special hours of the day. WMU also has it's own campus bus, to provide transporation to classes on both Campuses. WMU has a RSO called DSK which stands for Drive Safe Kalamazoo, they offer rides to students who are off campus and need a ride back to campus. They are typicallly used to give students rides home after a party, because in college you'll find there will be a lot of Alcohol at parties.

Greek Life

Yes, greek life is available at WMU!

Clubs and Activities

All the clubs and activities are accesible online through your GOWMU account, that's where you can search and find an RSO or Sports Club you're interested in. The meetings for each club or activites are held in a varieties of places on campus.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There are so many spots on campus that a certain group of students use, I cannot disclose of the information but when you become a BRONCO you'll find out all about it!

Bang for the buck

When you choose WMU, get ready for FALL WELCOME! That is only like one of the BEST WEEKS at WMU. There will be several engaging activities on campus as well as off.

What to do for fun

Join an RSO(Registered Student Organization), make your own RSO, Visit the Rec Center there's so many activites, groups, and equiment in there open to WMU students and the public.

Food and Dining

WMU does provide variety in each dining hall for the food selection. We do not leave any one out, we have food for Vegans and Vegetarians too!

Dorm Life

WMU has several different Resident Halls, some include dining services others have coffee shops, exercise rooms, aerobics rooms, etc. Each hall contains over 300 students, and the best part is their soooooo DIVERSE. If you're into meeting new people, trying new things, or stepping out of your comfort zone living in the Resident Halls will fulfill all those needs.

Academic Rigor

You must meet with an academic advisor every semester to ensure the classes you are taking are the right for the degree you are pursuing. You can also meet with your advisor for academic support, just as well as your professor. Just as any other college, the classes are to be taken serious or in the end YOU just wasted your time and money.

Tips for prospective students

If you plan to attend WMU, or any college you must enter with your eye on the prize(Degree) and never lose focus for why you are there. College comes with the freedom you've been dying to have since you began school, but it also comes with a whole lot of responsibilty. You have to take care yourself, and make sure you keep yourself on point because it's so easy to get distracted. At WMU, they encourage students to have a balance between their academic life and social life.

In three sentences

If you'd like to attend a school where they actually try to keep students engage, active, and on point. WESTERN IS DEFINITELY FOR YOU! At WMU everyone is family, the staff are very encouraging as well as strict, and the campus offers more than enough resources to ensure academic success!

Ashleigh from Kalamazoo, MI

01/12/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

We have police telephones located all over campus so that if something happens or you feel unsafe you can call them and they will come to you. Campus police are always on duty making sure that nothing bad is going on. Also all of the resident hall are secured by either having to use your ID to get in or a key so that way no stranger can just walk into the buildings.

Greek Life

There is a lot of different ones that you can join and it is a great opportunity to join one so that you can have the opportunity to meet new people and get involved on campus.

Clubs and Activities

There is a lot of different clubs that you can join. We even have sport clubs. The campus is always putting on different activities.

Great for these types of students

Western is a great school if you are into Music because we are known for are music programs here but it is also a great school if you want to get any kind of degree.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

On campus we have the Polar Bear plunge every year that students and facility do.

Bang for the buck

It is worth the money that you have to pay to attend Western.

What to do for fun

For fun at Western get involved with things that go on around campus, join an RSO, also you can go downtown and just look around.

Food and Dining

They have great food and you don't have to always go to the same dinning hall so you can get different food if you don't like what one place is having.

Dorm Life

They have good dorms to live in, they can just be small depending on which building you live in.

Academic Rigor

They are a great Academic school.

Tips for prospective students

Study hard, don't just goof off and think that you don't have to do anything, always go to class if you want to do good in your class and ask the professors for help if you need it.

In three sentences

It is a great place to continue your education. Have a lot of opportunity's out there for you to get involved in. Great people, really nice, all great to get along with.

Christianna from Kalamazoo, MI

01/25/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

There are police call phones located everywhere on campus. Campus Safety will be to that location within a minute of pressing the police call phone button. Campus Safety is very helpful and will walk you back to your dorm if you're out late at night and don't want to walk back by yourself.

Greek Life

There are lots of Greek life opportunities. Some include housing options and some are club active only. All the Greek housing is in the same area on a street called Fraternity Village.

Clubs and Activities

There over 250 clubs at Western Michigan University. They range from Greek life to Squirrel Watching Club. There are Varsity, Club, and IM sport that students can join.

Great for these types of students

Western Michigan University is great for all types of students. There are students from the Kalamazoo, from out of state, and from other countries.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Part of East Campus at Western Michigan University is located on the grounds of an old insane asylum. Western Michigan University's mascot was the Hill Toppers when the main campus was on East Campus.

Bang for the buck

Lots of places deliver late-night for a decide price. There are also lots of places that give student discounts. The public buses are free for Western Michigan University.

What to do for fun

There are multiple sporting events to go to and the Recreation Center has a full gym. There is a mall and movie theaters that are on the bus routes if you don't have a car.

Food and Dining

There are six dining hall and all of them have a wide variety of food to choose from. There is also a carry-out dining facility and three cafes on main campus.

Dorm Life

Everyone in the dorms are very helpful. All the dorms have a dining hall so you don't have to leave your building to get food. The RAs and Hall Directors are there to help students and are very welcoming.

Academic Rigor

The professors are usually very good. The professions are willing to help out through office houses or by setting up an appointment. The advisers are helpful when trying to decide what classes to take for the major you're taking.

Tips for prospective students

My main tip is to stay in the on campus for your first year. The next one is cliche, go to class. Honestly it is very helpful. The professor does a better job of explaining the subject than the book does and usually more in depth as well.

In three sentences

The campus is big but small enough for you to walk all the way across campus in fifteen minutes. There are lots of dining halls and cafes for students to get something to eat. The bookstore is on campus close to all the dorms and is nicely laid out.

Emma from Ann Arbor, MI

You could go downtown, go bowling, go to the movies, go to the mall, or just spend time with friends.

Food and Dining

Great food and good hours.

Dorm Life

Living in the dorms is excellent! The food is good and the community is extremely welcoming.

Academic Rigor

WMU does not have the most rigorous academic program. However, it does offer the education one needs to succeed. (An honors college is also available which offers more classes with greater work loads and the opportunity to exercise one's mind even more).

Tips for prospective students

I would advise prospective students to take advantage of all Western Michigan University has to offer. The registered student organizations are wonderful opportunities to get involved on campus. There is an excellent professor to student ratio, making it more likely to have smaller class sizes. This helps when students may desire to talk and get to know their professors.

In three sentences

Western Michigan is an excellent four-year university. It offers complete and challenging academic programs designed to help students either find careers upon graduation or continue in their education with graduate programs. The size, community, and educational opportunities make it a great choice for any student with the desire to better themselves with a college education.

Amanda from Vicksburg, MI

01/28/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

Campus is bustling with much to do for their campus students, from athletic and club events, to shopping with your friends. I personally live off campus, but have the opportunity to view the up and coming events on the Bronco news forums.

Food and Dining

Western provides their students/staff with many delicious options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner as the Student building is full of choices from Subway, to Chinese cuisine.

Dorm Life

I currently do not live on campus as I have a home nearby.

Academic Rigor

I believe that Western has a high standard for their graduates, and they expect for their students to be able to perform well so that one day their students will succeed in the current work force.

Tips for prospective students

Before you make your decision to attend any college it is important that you not only attend the school to get a feel for what campus life is like, but it is also important for you to meet with an academic counselor to get an understanding of what your schedule can look like for your particular degree interest. It is important to go over your fears with your adviser so they have a good understanding of what your needs are.

In three sentences

Western Michigan University has been a wonderful school to attend. I am currently working on my Masters in Marriage, couples, and Family Counseling, and I have completely enjoyed the classes and the professors that have organized my class periods. I would recommend Western Michigan to anyone looking for a college with high standards.

Keely from Kalamazoo, MI

Western Michigan University has several clubs and activities for everyone's interests.

Great for these types of students

This college is great for any kind of student. Very diverse and open minded.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

This college is in the heart of a medium size town. Everything is walking distance. There is something for everyone.

Bang for the buck

The best college ever!!

What to do for fun

There are many kind students that make this college fun. There are many activities that Western Michigan University offers that make this college unique and entertaining.

Food and Dining

There is plenty of food to choose from.

Dorm Life

The dorms are fun and the students make it fun!!

Academic Rigor

Western Michigan University is an exceptionally diverse school that offers a copious amount of unique majors that would fit any future student's dreams.

Tips for prospective students

Don't be afraid to ask questions. If your unsure of something in class ask your teacher. The teachers always have flexible office hours and are very approachable.

In three sentences

Western Michigan University is a wonderfully diverse school full of opportunities. It offers a copious amount of majors that would fit any student's dreams and aspirations. The professors are passionate about their studies which entices the students to learn more.

Taylor from Norton Shores, MI

03/05/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

There are always people in the dorm which leads to making tons of new friends very quickly. Many organizations set up activities throughout the week and there are several clubs to join. Also, WMU has sororities and fraternities if you are interested in Greek life.

Food and Dining

The dining hall in my dorm had just been installed, so they were learning the ropes of providing meals for a mass of students. They offered the same choices day after day so I found myself going to other dorms and eating most of the time. Most of the food choices were frozen and then re-heated in the microwave or came from a can/box. No health content.

Dorm Life

I was in a suite style dorm my freshman year, and I would not recommend the dorms to anyone. I hated the dorms at Western mainly because I was paired with someone who is the complete opposite of me. My roommate stayed up all night and never left the room any other time besides to go to class, so I was stuck with her 24/7. My suitemates were also messy and loud all the time. There was always a commotion in the hallway, regardless of quiet hours. My RA was practically nonexistent and I often had my packages lost or missing.

Academic Rigor

My classes differ greatly and challenge me in various ways. I enjoy my professors and I do take an online class. If you do your homework, attend class, study for tests/quizzes, and ask questions when you do not understand, you will not have any problems learning. Professors are cooperative and eager to help.

Tips for prospective students

Visit the campus to get a feel for your surroundings and ask lots of questions! I advise you to not go in blind if looking for a roommate in the dorms.

In three sentences

I think Western Michigan University has a diverse campus with plenty of opportunities and activities to become involved with your peers. There is a place for everyone to fit in and feel at home while away from home. The education offered here is outstanding and will completely prepare me for my future career.

Paulina from Paw Paw, MI

Campus is a pretty safe place to be. There are cops around just to make sure that everything is okay, and there are police boxes every few blocks.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Close to the Parkview campus, there is a place called Asylum Lake. If you are up for something a little creepy, it's fun to explore at night. There are a lot of good food places around. Sweetwater's has the best doughnuts and is open 24/7 which is good for a midnight craving. There are also insomnia cookies that can be delivered to your dorm room.

What to do for fun

There are a lot of clubs here. A lot of events always going on. The epicenter of the campus holds a lot of activities held by the students and our CAB is really great at planning events that all of the students would like.

Food and Dining

Food is good. They provide a lot of places to eat but not all of the dorm areas have food centers and not all halls are open at convenient times.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is okay. There are a lot of great people to meet in there during Welcome Week. And the security for the dorms is great. People are generally really welcoming.

Academic Rigor

This college is pretty challenging. It is at the level where I think that most people would actually have to study. The work-load is rigorous and very rewarding. The engineering program is pretty great. It is a bonus that you can understand your professors.

Tips for prospective students

There are a lot of places to buy books around campus, go to the book store before you buy your books and compare them with Amazon or Chegg. Go to the help rooms there are a lot here and the professors are willing to help.

In three sentences

Very small-town, cultured, first step into the world. There is a lot to do here because it is a college town. Academics can be hard if you do not ask for the correct help.

Lisa from Goodrich, MI

04/03/2014

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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What to do for fun

If the hundreds of clubs and thousands of people on campus aren't enough for you, you can always step off campus and visit Kalamazoo City where there are tons of different shops and activities going on everyday.

Food and Dining

The food at Western is delicious and there are many options to choose from.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is fantastically enthusiastic at Western. With 25,000 students there are plenty of people to meet and talk to. It's wonderfully refreshing knowing that you could meet a new person everyday and still never know everyone who lives on campus.

Academic Rigor

The classes at Western Michigan University fall into that perfect, sweet spot between too easy and too hard. They are difficult enough to challenge your mind and illicit deep, critical thinking but not so hard that they frustrate and depress.

Tips for prospective students

Prospective students make sure to pack lots of warm clothes and multiple fans for your dorm. This is Michigan we're talking about, the winter is fierce and the summer is stifling.

In three sentences

Western Michigan University lies among beautiful trees and rolling hills. It has one of the loveliest campuses in Michigan that positively bursts with life and activity. Being right next door to the city, there is always something to do and somewhere to go at Western Michigan University.

Alia from Kalamazoo, MI

I love the on campus police patrolling. I also like the student campus safety officers. This makes me feel safer going from one location to another on campus.

Greek Life

Be you first and foremost, if you desire to be a part of a sorority or fraternity do It for the right reasons. It is okay to stand out and not fit in.

Great for these types of students

All types of people from different walks. I can say the students at western Michigan university are very nice and friendly

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Wayside west on Wednesdays Waldo's tavern on Fridays for the wings Unfortunately it's only one Buffalo Wild Wings but every ones goes on Tuesdays

Bang for the buck

College is expensive.

What to do for fun

There isn't much fun to be had in Kalamazoo Michigan. There are lots of great food places, movies, go karts and putt putt, things of that nature to occupy boredom.

Food and Dining

I love the variety at all the different cafe. I even like that we can pay to eat if you don't have a meal plan.

Dorm Life

I would not recommend living in the dorms, they have on campus apartments that are more accommodating

Academic Rigor

Do what you love and love what you do and nothing will be too difficult to accomplish.

Tips for prospective students

Prospective students should investigate possible professor reviews for teachers in their major, this might seem far fetch for freshman but it's beneficial in the long run. Another word if advise for students thinking about attending Western Michigan would be, start off living on campus and getting involved on campus.

In three sentences

Rating Western University in the Location, academics and staff helpfulness. Location wise, western is in a decent spot in Kalamazoo. The places students need to go are close to campus and convenient . As far as academics Western offers a vast range of degrees for all types of students. Unfortunately the staff is not very friendly or helpful, this is a huge con for me as a student. Unfortunately you would not know the staff is so unpleasant until your a student.

Kyle from Novi, MI

05/20/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

There are always patrols of campus police, they will be there if you need them and will be there if you don't. They will walk up to you and talk to you, some are cool, others aren't. The lower level officers with less seniority have something to prove, so they usually end up on the less cool side. Overall, I've had much better experience with Western Public Safety than other schools, (CMU, MSU, and UofM).

Greek Life

I haven't had too much experience with this.

Clubs and Activities

There is always something to do, different specials each night. If you like craft beer, Kalamazoo is the place for you.

Explore the woods, we have lots of them. The ring road is great fun to bike on, and actually so is the whole campus. Get high and see the campus -- Everett tower is six floors and the top level is great to study or just admire the local area. East Hall is great as well, it has a great view of the Vine neighborhood and downtown.

Bang for the buck

This is exactly why I chose Western Michigan University, knowing tuition would be doubled or quadrupled for other colleges in the state (MSU, UofM), and the quality of the engineering and physics programs here, I made the right choice.

What to do for fun

Explore the campus, the local areas, check out the downtown, ride your bike, enjoy the sun, bring some sleds for winter, etc! There is always something going on!

Food and Dining

I'm not saying this place is a four star restaurant, but reminds me of good home cooking. The hours can be difficult to manage, but the food is great -- try the mac n' cheese. Also, the Bistro is where its at, the food there is superb, actually -- that probably is five star.

Dorm Life

I loved the dorms while I was here, I had two different roommates, one for each semester (one transferred after the first semester). Both were people I never knew before, and I made great friends with them, I was shocked how well we got along! My suitemates were awesome guys too. The coed floors are nice, I highly recommend them, the variation is needed. My Resident Assistant was super nice, and I'm still friends with her as well.

Academic Rigor

The physics and electrical engineering programs here are rigorous. I rated this four out of five stars because obviously they could be more difficult, but in terms of preparing you for industry, these programs will do that.

Tips for prospective students

Get out and explore! The people here are great, there are so many different cultures on campus, you need to see them all. Enjoy yourselves, and make sure to keep up with your studies. Talk to your advisor! They are your friend!

In three sentences

I love Western Michigan University and will always remember it. I have formed invaluable friendships and relationships with other students, faculty, and staff. WMU has expanded my skill set in Physics, Electrical Engineering, and Sustainability, my three areas of focus.

Andreina from Kalamazoo, MI

Don't step over the big W on the floor right next to the library (specially if you're a Freshman), it is said that if you do, you will have a bad academic year!

Tips for prospective students

Get involved in student integration activities like the Bronco Bash and Welcome Week. Take advantage of your year at the dorms and attend everything you possibly can!

In three sentences

-Nice campus, not to big, always clean, safe and installations are nice. -WMU has great concern on student's wellbeing and success. -Great Theatre department. Very involved with the students' success and progress.

Alexander from Detroit, MI

06/05/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Categories

Comments

Campus Safety

Students at western always feel safe there. I always see a patrol car moving around campus as I walk to class, and sometimes when I look out my dorm window. There are also police call boxes around campus that you can press in case of an emergency. The police station is within the campus and you can see the station when you are walking to a broncos football game.

Clubs and Activities

There are tons of clubs and activities here to do at western. There are always new clubs starting up, and the university lets the students propose new clubs that they would like to start up at the school.

Great for these types of students

If you are the student that is outgoing, not outgoing, active, or is still trying to figure out what to do for a career I would say this is the school for you. It is a very friendly environment and there are always new things happing everyday. This is a college that gives you no excuse to be sitting bored in your dorm or apartment everyday with nothing to do.

Bang for the buck

Coming to this school definitely gives you the experience that you are paying for. The academics and certain benefits of going to the school gives you the extra confidence that you have invested well into a good college. The services that are provided for example, free rides on the city buses and a gym membership already paid for in the school cost also is good as well.

What to do for fun

When I usually have some down time I will either go to the gym and play basketball, lift weights, or go for a jog. I also participate in a club sport called ultimate Frisbee, and that keeps me very active at the school. I also get together with my friends and watch movies or play video games in our dorms. There is also a game room in the bottom of my valley so I go down there sometimes and play ping pong or pool.

Food and Dining

The food at western is pretty good. There are multiple dining halls at western and each of them are different in their own way. Depending on what dinning halls you go too will help you decide on if the food at western is good or not. The valleys' foods are usually good, but some days the food could be a little better. On campus dining at bistro and bigelow are most of the time very good to eat and they bring a really diverse menu of food to eat.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is fantastic. The people that are around you are usually going for the same or similar major as you. This way both of the students can help each other out and solve problems more effectively. This also gives students a great group of people to hang out with because they will most likely have a lot of stuff in common. The RA's are always on their job and keeping the halls a good place to live in, and maintaining the quietness when it is time for it.

Academic Rigor

The Academics at the college are designed to be very rigorous. This way the professors can tell if you are ready to move on ahead to the next level, and that you are prepared for the job that you may want in the future. Also this will help the student to be prepared for anything that might come to them on the job.

Tips for prospective students

Be ready to put in hard work for what you want to do. Have an open mind to what is around you, and be willing to accept new ideas and activities. Become involved at the college because that will make it a lot easier and you meet a lot of people that way. There are always students and teachers at the school who are always ready to answer any questions that you have for them .

In three sentences

Western Michigan university is truly an awesome school. The faculty are always ready to help their students with problems or questions they have about an assignment. The environment at western is very friendly and unique, and you can never be ashamed of who you are at the college.

Diego from Grand Rapids, MI

Recently there has been a couple unsafe scenarios, but they are all taken care of by the police.

Greek Life

I joined Pi Kappa Alpha and it was a great decision I love Greek life.

Clubs and Activities

There is a ton of clubs and activities for you to join. I have joined a few clubs and they are great way to meet new people.

Bang for the buck

Everything on campus is way overpriced but if you go to a Wal-Mart or an off campus restaurant the prices are a little better

What to do for fun

There is so much to do. There is always something going on and there is so many different organizations you can join.

Food and Dining

They do have good food most days but other days it can just be the worst. The best cafe on campus is Bistro it is definitely worth the walk from the valleys if they are not serving good food.

Dorm Life

Dorm life was great I met so many people. It is a great way to make great friendships that will last forever.

Academic Rigor

I have had good professors who know what they are talking about when they are teaching, but some do not speak the best English so it was kind of hard to understand them sometimes.

Tips for prospective students

Take advantage of all the free study groups and tutors they offer. Get to know your professors. Meet new people and be happy you are at Western.

In three sentences

WMU is a great school I love it here the atmosphere, the education, and the social life. WMU has many great programs to choose from while attending here. Coming to WMU was one of the best decisions I have made in my life.

Laura from Mason, MI

Hang out with friends on campus or go to downtown Kalamazoo and explore!

Food and Dining

Certain places are better than others, but Bernhard and Bistro3 are awesome! Just watch the menu options and pick the one that looks best to you.

Dorm Life

Living on campus is a blast. There are so rules which may be annoying, but if you only live on campus for a year or two it really is no big deal. It's a good way to transition to fully living on your own.

Academic Rigor

It is what you make it. You can skimp and take the easiest version of everything or go above and beyond and get involved in the more difficult classes. The more challenging ones are so much more rewarding and will pay off in the long run!

Tips for prospective students

Get out there! It can be awkward at first but as soon as you start talking to others and getting involved you will have such a great time!

In three sentences

Western is amazing at making a student feel important. Western cares about making sure each individual student is getting the resources they need. Even with 25,000 students you get that individual attention that helps you be successful.

Bridget from Troy, MI

There is a police force on campus. There are also plenty of police call boxes. There is a check in policy after specific times through out the week in the dorms. I never feel unsafe on campus.

Greek Life

There are 7 sororities and 8 fraternities.

Clubs and Activities

Over 200 clubs and most activities on campus are either free or $1-$5. There are comedians, concerts, plays. There is always something to go to or do. We even have unusual clubs such as the quidditch club, zombies versus humans, and squirrel loving club.

Great for these types of students

Western has something for everyone. We have most programs people are looking for. It is a great school for any health profession, with connections to the local hospitals and onsite clinics as well as a new med school, business with career fairs and job shadowing, engineering, aviation, and music/theater.

Bang for the buck

The tuition is reasonable for what you get. It is super accessible with financial aid, FASFA, and scholarships. Most things for students are free, such as football games, hockey, as well as the campus and city busses. There is also a clinic on campus that offers anything form a general check up to getting x-rays. All the professors are super nice, understanding, and know the material. The class sizes can range from 30-200 people.

What to do for fun

There are plenty of events to go to around campus. Miller Auditorium almost always has a show playing, many of them are Off Broadway and usually fairly cheap for students. There are also comedians who come, and plenty of bands. Our football and Hockey games are all super exciting, not to mention free for students. There is also something going on in Downtown Kalamazoo, whether it is a cultural festival or just shopping around. Kalamazoo is also 2.5 hrs way from Chicago and 45 min away from Lake Michigan.

Food and Dining

The food is somewhat decent. It's not complete fine dining or always like a home cooked meal. They have a gluten free fridge stocked in every cafeteria, plenty of options for vegetarians and vegans, and they have a gigantic salad bar as well.

Dorm Life

Everything in the dorms are run super efficiently. We have plenty of activities going on in the dorm. For example, on Halloween we had a haunted basement. It is a great way to meet new people and have the college experience. = The RAs are all super nice and personable as well as the LCAs.

Academic Rigor

As long as you go to class and pay attention it is not that difficult. Most of the professors are up front about how there exams are structured and what is going to be on them. There are plenty of classes to choose from with different difficulties so you can make your schedule a mix of both harder classes and easier classes.

Tips for prospective students

If you plan on coming to Western Michigan University join a student organization, there are plenty that each student should be able to fit into one. Make connections with your professors, they are all super approachable and super nice.

In three sentences

Western Michigan has a little bit of everything, so no matter where you are you will always feel at home. There are over 200 student organizations from students to choose from, the professors are some of the nicest you'll meet, and the campus is gorgeous and full of life. Western has plenty to offer so hopefully you will bleed brown and gold.

Jane from Chicago, IL

11/05/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Comments

Campus Safety

I feel very safe on campus! Even if I have a night class and dread having to walk back alone, there are always other who are willing to walk back or even take the bus with you. Campus security is very sturdy and lenient as well!

Greek Life

Greek life is amazing. You meet great people who share the same morals as you and it's a lot of fun to experience things with them! Even if you just go through recruitment, that's always a good experience. A lot of people I've met through recruitment are still my friends today and you really get to know one another and connect. It's definitely one college experience I think everyone should go through.

Clubs and Activities

There are nearly 392 RSO's to get involved in. Get out there and find one! I can assure you there is something for everyone. Theres even a squirrel club!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Western Michigan's campus is FILLED with hills. If you live in the Valley's, (that name already speaks for itself) the hills are very steep. So get used to feeling winded on your way to your classes! Your calves will definitely be toned by the end of the ear!

What to do for fun

Join clubs! Go greek! I recently just joined a sorority and could not be any happier. I've met some great girls who I look forward to spending the next 4 years with!

Food and Dining

Let's just say it could be better. But when you're really hungry and you're sick of your microwaveable macaroni and cheese cups, dining halls have all you can eat. They always have something for everyone here, salad bars, stir fry, sandwiches, etc.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is or course as average as any typical dorm can be. It's a great freshman experience that I think everyone should enjoy and would remember. Lofted beds aren't always fun and actually somewhat a hassle, so look forward to the nights you just end up sleeping on your futon!

Academic Rigor

I'd say that Western challenges me to my full potential because its professors are always trying their hardest to help you succeed. They offer many tutoring labs and office hours.

Tips for prospective students

Join as many RSO's (registered student organizations) as you can. It's a fun way to meet people who share common interests as you and a fun way to spend your free time!

In three sentences

Western is an overall great school because of it's medium size. There are small classes with about 20 people and there are large lecture halls with 200 other students. There is something for everyone!

Sidney from Flint, MI

Our safety system is very good. Very minimal amounts of yearly crime rates.

Clubs and Activities

There are hundreds of clubs and organizations, mostly made by students on campus. They range from frats, to foreign language to dance clubs, so there's something for anyone.

Great for these types of students

If you like to socialize and network, then this is the school for you. This school is a big community and kind of requires you to be social.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Do not step on the W' underneath the tower thing near the library, or you won't graduate.

Bang for the buck

For the price, there is so much included. We have free unlimited bus passes for the Kalamazoo metro routes, so you can go anywhere you want all over the city. It all just depends what you're interested in, and how open-minded you are.

What to do for fun

I'm not a big partier, but I know there's always a party almost every weekend. There are clubs, bars, shopping centers, movies, and tons of extracurricular activities to do in Kalamazoo. Downtown is a great place to look for something fun to do.

Food and Dining

Because of mass production, the food services are not always the best. Cafeteria food is varied and creative, but the healthy options aren't always. However, food services are located in convenient places all around campus.

Dorm Life

The dorms are okay. Depending on where you live the living conditions can seem great or disgusting.

Academic Rigor

The classes are not that hard, but they all usually come with a load of homework. If you set aside about 5 hours a day to do homework you should be okay. It's a good idea to not skip lectures or labs. Be engaged in order to get the full education you paid for.

Tips for prospective students

Make friends, but be careful who they are. There are a lot of careless people here who will bring you down with them. Be smart about your decisions and don't be afraid to be yourself.

In three sentences

Western has a very, live and social atmosphere. It offers many interesting majors. The faculty are really involved in making Western a great learning environment.

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